The Federal Government has officially launched the Presidential Initiative for the Empowerment of Youth in Agriculture, popularly known as “The Green Money Project.” The launch ceremony took place at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), Ogun State, yesterday, 22nd of April, and was led by the Special Assistant to the President on Agriculture, Hon. Abiodun M. Yinusa.

The Green Money Project aims to harness Nigeria’s agricultural potential by empowering youth and leveraging the country’s rich resources and untapped opportunities in the sector. Hon. Yinusa emphasized that the initiative is in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency on food security and complements the ongoing efforts of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security.

According to Hon. Yinusa, the project will attract, train, and support youth by equipping them with knowledge in modern agricultural practices, mechanization, climate-smart farming techniques, and digital technologies. The initiative will be implemented across selected universities, youth development centers, and technical colleges nationwide, with the overarching goal of contributing to the achievement of zero hunger in Nigeria.

Hon. Yinusa further highlighted the direct connection between the nation’s challenges, including unemployment, poverty, and food insecurity, and the longstanding underutilization of the agricultural sector by young Nigerians. He reiterated the commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration and his Renewed Hope Agenda to empower and motivate youth to take a leading role in transforming agriculture.

The Vice Chancellor of FUNAAB, Professor Olushola Babatunde Kehinde, expressed appreciation to the Presidency for choosing FUNAAB as one of the partner institutions, describing the initiative as a timely and impactful intervention.

During a tour of the university’s agricultural facilities, he showcased several research and operational successes and expressed optimism that the partnership will significantly enhance the university’s capacity in food production and value chain development.