In a strategic move to strengthen Nigeria’s food systems and respond to global supply chain disruptions, the Federal Government has advanced a major collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) through a ₦15 billion (approx. $110 million) Food Security Emergency Loan Support Programme.
At a high-level meeting held in Abuja on Wednesday, the Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, and the Honourable Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, engaged with senior JICA representatives to finalise steps for immediate implementation of the facility.
The programme is designed to boost food production, enhance supply chain resilience, and provide critical support to rural farmers, particularly as the rainy season begins—a key planting period across the country.
“The timing is crucial,” Mr. Edun noted. “This facility will enable us to deliver support where it’s most needed, in a coordinated and impactful way, especially for our rural communities.”
JICA welcomed Nigeria’s commitment to rapid delivery and sought clarity on certain adjustments proposed to the original implementation structure. It was agreed that core production activities would commence immediately under the current framework, while components such as aggregation and financing would be reviewed to align with the terms of the loan agreement.
The partnership reflects a shared commitment by both governments to tackle food insecurity, promote inclusive growth, and uplift the livelihoods of millions of Nigerians. It also reinforces Nigeria’s broader economic agenda of sustainable development and agricultural transformation.
The renewed engagement with JICA comes at a time when food prices and input costs have soared due to global conflicts and climate-related disruptions, putting immense pressure on local food systems.
