The federal government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Niger State Government and the National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA) to empower 100,000 youths through a National Youth Agricultural Scheme.

Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande signed on behalf of the Federal Government while Niger State Governor, Mohammed Bago and the Chairman of Niger Foods, Sammy Adigun; and the CEO/Executive Secretary of NALDA, Mr. Cornelius Oluwasegun Adebayo signed on behalf of their state and organisations respectively.

During the signing ceremony held at the Council Chamber of the Government House in Minna, Niger State capital, Olawande commended the governor for his efforts in ensuring a stable food supply in Nigeria, as well as in job creation and youth empowerment.

In a statement by the Director (Information and Public Relations), Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Omolara Esan on Thursday in Abuja, the minister emphasised that the tripartite agreement will strengthen the relationship between the ministry, Niger State Government and NALDA.

Olawande noted that the agreement is a testament to the success being achieved through the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu towards ensuring food security and job creation for Nigerian youth.

Chairman of Niger Foods, Sammy Adigun explained that the partnership aims to produce half a million tons of food, with each youth earning N150,000 in the first year; with the prospect of earning millions over the next four to five years.

On his part, Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of NALDA, Cornelius Adebayo, described Niger State as a leading example in agricultural development, making it an ideal location to initiate this partnership for youth development.

Governor Bago welcomed the collaboration between NALDA and the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, describing it as a landmark achievement.

He expressed optimism that the agreement will meet its objectives, noting the potentials of Nigerian youths to excel with minimal support.