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  • NIRSAL facilitates over N100bn in 2025, drives 159 jobs

    NIRSAL facilitates over N100bn in 2025, drives 159 jobs

    The Nigeria Incentive-Based Risk Sharing System for Agricultural Lending (NIRSAL Plc) has facilitated more than N290 billion in finance between 2013 and 2025 across primary production, processing, logistics, market development, and exports.

    The institution also facilitated the creation of over 520,000 jobs, impacting more than three million lives across rural and urban communities.

    The institution, in a statement on Sunday, said the interventions strengthened industrial capacity utilisation, supported farmers to expand production, deepened market access, and preserved value across agricultural value chains through risk-sharing, insurance advocacy, incentive mechanisms, and technical assistance.

    According to performance records, NIRSAL facilitated N298.49 billion in credit through its Risk Sharing Facility during the period, issued 949 guarantees, and supported 251 agribusinesses, with a non-performing loan ratio of less than 0.8 percent. In addition, over 449,000 agricultural value chain actors were trained, more than 159,000 jobs were supported, and about 795,000 lives were directly impacted through programme interventions.

    Read Also: Man killed by childhood friend during Christmas visit in Edo

    NIRSAL Plc also developed more than 20 agribusiness models and tools, trained over 2,000 financial institution staff and more than 303 value chain actors, and facilitated N33.9 billion through programme management initiatives. 

    Its insurance advocacy drive led to the introduction of five index insurance products, onboarding of nine insurance firms, issuance of 1.8 million index insurance policies, and over N5.2 billion in insurance payouts, with N4.6 billion in claims paid and N4.2 billion recovered. Through its incentive mechanism, NIRSAL processed $1.8 million in interest drawback payments to 386 obligors.

    Closing 2025 with its highest annual finance facilitated to date, NIRSAL announced that total approved credit guarantees for the year surpassed N100 billion in loans and investments in agriculture and agribusiness nationwide.

    The feat enabled partner banks and lending institutions to extend credit to value chain activities that would otherwise be considered too risky for on-balance sheet exposure.

    The institution said the performance demonstrates steady progress in de-risking agricultural lending, improving access to finance for agribusinesses, strengthening lender confidence in the sector, and deepening financial inclusion across the agriculture-to-market ecosystem.

    In recognition of these outcomes, NIRSAL received the MSME Agrifinance Enabler of the Year Award at the 2nd Edition of the MSME Finance & CEO Awards held in Lagos state.

    Speaking at the event, NIRSAL’s Managing Director/CEO, Sa’ad Hamidu, said the recognition “speaks to the power of structured risk-sharing models, strong partnerships with financial institutions, and the resilience of Nigeria’s agribusiness entrepreneurs.” He was represented by Akinola Baiyewu, NIRSAL’s Regional Head, South, Business Development Group.

    Hamidu added that the organisation is “not chasing after awards, but is focused on drawing the attention of potential partners across the agrifinance value chain to NIRSAL’s value proposition for safe, profitable, and sustainable investments in Nigeria’s agriculture sector.”

    NIRSAL’s partnerships with commercial banks and other lenders supported commodity exports, agro-processing, input supply, primary production, storage, warehousing, and logistics. Through technical assistance programmes, field monitoring, and project mapping protocols, the institution said it continued to unlock opportunities for farmers, processors, aggregators, and market actors.

    On its role as a facilitator rather than a lending house, the Managing Director explained that substantial financial capital exists within the financial system to transform agriculture, but inherent value chain risks often discourage lending. 

    He said the N100 billion milestone recorded in 2025 represents a shift from caution to stronger confidence among lenders, driven by NIRSAL’s credit risk guarantees and risk management frameworks that assure banks of viable portfolio performance.

    Financial institutions, he noted, are increasingly relying on NIRSAL’s risk-sharing tools to grow agricultural portfolios, optimise capital deployment, and pursue both commercial and development outcomes.

    To date, the institution has signed 41 master agreements with counterparties willing to jointly finance agriculture and agribusiness across the country.

    NIRSAL also strengthened its role in mobilising alternative finance for agriculture. As a Delivery Partner to the Green Climate Fund (GCF) for climate finance readiness, it is delivering capacity development programmes across Nigeria, with optimism that the country will attract sizable climate finance inflows to support climate-smart agriculture and resilience-building initiatives.

    Drawing from lessons learned through national and sub-national smallholder financing schemes, the organisation refined its programme management offerings for state governments, private agribusiness investors, and cooperative-led primary production clusters.

    The refined approach includes improved protocols for farmer onboarding, capacity-building, geo-mapping, soil testing, and mechanisation support aimed at boosting productivity and production outcomes.

    Looking ahead to 2026, NIRSAL said it will continue to expand its finance facilitation footprint, support climate-smart agriculture, enhance sectoral resilience, and improve the competitiveness of Nigeria’s agribusiness ecosystem.

    “Our journey is far from over,” Hamidu said. “In fact, it is only just beginning. We will continue to innovate, deepen partnerships, and scale solutions that reduce risks and unlock finance for Nigeria’s agriculture sector. With the support of our Board of Directors and the dedication of our people, 2026 will see NIRSAL further scale its contribution towards agriculture transformation.”

  • NIRSAL facilitates over N100bn in 2025, drives 159 jobs

    NIRSAL facilitates over N100bn in 2025, drives 159 jobs

    The Nigeria Incentive-Based Risk Sharing System for Agricultural Lending (NIRSAL Plc) has facilitated more than N290 billion in finance between 2013 and 2025 across primary production, processing, logistics, market development, and exports.

    The institution also facilitated the creation of over 520,000 jobs, impacting more than three million lives across rural and urban communities.

    The institution, in a statement on Sunday, said the interventions strengthened industrial capacity utilisation, supported farmers to expand production, deepened market access, and preserved value across agricultural value chains through risk-sharing, insurance advocacy, incentive mechanisms, and technical assistance.

    According to performance records, NIRSAL facilitated N298.49 billion in credit through its Risk Sharing Facility during the period, issued 949 guarantees, and supported 251 agribusinesses, with a non-performing loan ratio of less than 0.8 percent. In addition, over 449,000 agricultural value chain actors were trained, more than 159,000 jobs were supported, and about 795,000 lives were directly impacted through programme interventions.

    NIRSAL Plc also developed more than 20 agribusiness models and tools, trained over 2,000 financial institution staff and more than 303 value chain actors, and facilitated N33.9 billion through programme management initiatives. 

    Its insurance advocacy drive led to the introduction of five index insurance products, onboarding of nine insurance firms, issuance of 1.8 million index insurance policies, and over N5.2 billion in insurance payouts, with N4.6 billion in claims paid and N4.2 billion recovered. Through its incentive mechanism, NIRSAL processed $1.8 million in interest drawback payments to 386 obligors.

    Closing 2025 with its highest annual finance facilitated to date, NIRSAL announced that total approved credit guarantees for the year surpassed N100 billion in loans and investments in agriculture and agribusiness nationwide.

    The feat enabled partner banks and lending institutions to extend credit to value chain activities that would otherwise be considered too risky for on-balance sheet exposure.

    The institution said the performance demonstrates steady progress in de-risking agricultural lending, improving access to finance for agribusinesses, strengthening lender confidence in the sector, and deepening financial inclusion across the agriculture-to-market ecosystem.

    In recognition of these outcomes, NIRSAL received the MSME Agrifinance Enabler of the Year Award at the 2nd Edition of the MSME Finance & CEO Awards held in Lagos state.

    Speaking at the event, NIRSAL’s Managing Director/CEO, Sa’ad Hamidu, said the recognition “speaks to the power of structured risk-sharing models, strong partnerships with financial institutions, and the resilience of Nigeria’s agribusiness entrepreneurs.” He was represented by Akinola Baiyewu, NIRSAL’s Regional Head, South, Business Development Group.

    Hamidu added that the organisation is “not chasing after awards, but is focused on drawing the attention of potential partners across the agrifinance value chain to NIRSAL’s value proposition for safe, profitable, and sustainable investments in Nigeria’s agriculture sector.”

    NIRSAL’s partnerships with commercial banks and other lenders supported commodity exports, agro-processing, input supply, primary production, storage, warehousing, and logistics. Through technical assistance programmes, field monitoring, and project mapping protocols, the institution said it continued to unlock opportunities for farmers, processors, aggregators, and market actors.

    On its role as a facilitator rather than a lending house, the Managing Director explained that substantial financial capital exists within the financial system to transform agriculture, but inherent value chain risks often discourage lending. 

    He said the N100 billion milestone recorded in 2025 represents a shift from caution to stronger confidence among lenders, driven by NIRSAL’s credit risk guarantees and risk management frameworks that assure banks of viable portfolio performance.

    Financial institutions, he noted, are increasingly relying on NIRSAL’s risk-sharing tools to grow agricultural portfolios, optimise capital deployment, and pursue both commercial and development outcomes.

    To date, the institution has signed 41 master agreements with counterparties willing to jointly finance agriculture and agribusiness across the country.

    Read Also: Nigerian Breweries, Terra Kulture partner to celebrate women resilience

    NIRSAL also strengthened its role in mobilising alternative finance for agriculture. As a Delivery Partner to the Green Climate Fund (GCF) for climate finance readiness, it is delivering capacity development programmes across Nigeria, with optimism that the country will attract sizable climate finance inflows to support climate-smart agriculture and resilience-building initiatives.

    Drawing from lessons learned through national and sub-national smallholder financing schemes, the organisation refined its programme management offerings for state governments, private agribusiness investors, and cooperative-led primary production clusters.

    The refined approach includes improved protocols for farmer onboarding, capacity-building, geo-mapping, soil testing, and mechanisation support aimed at boosting productivity and production outcomes.

    Looking ahead to 2026, NIRSAL said it will continue to expand its finance facilitation footprint, support climate-smart agriculture, enhance sectoral resilience, and improve the competitiveness of Nigeria’s agribusiness ecosystem.

    “Our journey is far from over,” Hamidu said. “In fact, it is only just beginning. We will continue to innovate, deepen partnerships, and scale solutions that reduce risks and unlock finance for Nigeria’s agriculture sector. With the support of our Board of Directors and the dedication of our people, 2026 will see NIRSAL further scale its contribution towards agriculture transformation.”

  • NIRSAL facilitates N70b agribusiness financing

    NIRSAL facilitates N70b agribusiness financing

    •Targets N150b

    The Nigeria Incentive-Based Risk Sharing System for Agricultural Lending (NIRSAL Plc) has facilitated over N70 billion in commercial financing for agribusinesses as of the third quarter (Q3) of 2025, marking its strongest annual performance since inception.

    In a statement issued yesterday in Abuja, the organisation said it remains confident of achieving its N150 billion target for 2025, reflecting renewed momentum in agricultural lending and investor confidence in the sector.

    According to NIRSAL, since it began operations in 2013, the latest result accounts for nearly a quarter of its cumulative N270 billion facilitated for agriculture and agribusiness to date. The institution said this milestone represents “an achievement that reflects the impact of NIRSAL’s revamped strategy under its new Board and Executive Management.”

    The statement observed that this turnaround comes at a crucial time when bank lending to agriculture had been in steady decline. “Bank lending to agriculture fell from 6.18 per cent of aggregate lending in 2022 to 4.82 per cent in 2024, while sectoral growth slowed from 2.5 per cent to 1.7 per cent within the same period,” it said.

    NIRSAL noted that the application of its signature tools for value chain modelling, alongside targeted technical support and risk-sharing frameworks has helped restore lender confidence in agribusiness financing.

    “By applying its signature tools for value chain modelling to address identified issues, providing technical support to agribusinesses and financial institutions, all while deploying its risk-sharing frameworks, NIRSAL has restored lender confidence, thus channelling fresh funds into key value chains, including grains, cocoa, shea, and livestock,” the statement added.

    On impact, the institution said the financing surge has led to a tangible rise in local production and improved trade performance. “There has been an improvement in local production across key commodities and a positive balance of trade for agriculture, with over 32 per cent of the facilitated sum directly supporting value-added commodity export. Most notably, agriculture’s share of bank lending has risen again to 5.33 per cent as of May 2025, reflecting renewed interest from financiers,” it stated.

    NIRSAL also revealed that two newly licensed banks have entered the agricultural finance space relying on its frameworks, contributing to the N70 billion already facilitated this year.

    Commenting on the milestone, NIRSAL Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Sa’ad Hamidu, said the result demonstrates the viability of sustainable agricultural financing. “N70 billion may appear modest compared to the size of Nigeria’s agricultural financing needs, but the significance is profound. It proves that agriculture can be commercially and sustainably financed. With the right blend of capital, technical support, and risk mitigation, the sector can become more productive, resilient, and globally competitive,” Hamidu said.

    He noted that the organisation’s confidence in achieving its N150 billion annual target remains strong, given that the busiest period for agricultural financing is yet to begin.

    “This is not yet the peak of the harvest season when merchants typically seek credit for offtake and storage, and when super agro-dealers stock up on fertilisers and inputs ahead of the next planting cycle. Therefore, the opportunities still to come give us every reason for optimism,” he explained.

    NIRSAL stated that beyond facilitating loans, it is reshaping the entire agricultural lending ecosystem through an integrated model that covers prospect identification, deal structuring, business advisory, and credit guarantees. The model, according to the organisation, “handholds agribusinesses from loan origination to disbursement,”enabling them to transition from unbankable enterprises to sustainable borrowers.

    The statement noted that several agribusinesses that once relied on NIRSAL’s intervention have now evolved into regular clients of commercial banks, with lenders gaining deeper understanding of agricultural value chains and greater confidence in financing them. “This proves that the NIRSAL model is a pathway to long-term sustainability in the agriculture sector,” it said.

    Read Also: Nigeria, China in talks over $2b finance for super grid

    The N70 billion facilitated so far, NIRSAL explained, is the result of extensive capacity-building efforts across financial institutions. The organisation trained over 1,100 bank staff to improve their understanding of agricultural financing within NIRSAL’s risk-sharing framework, which has contributed to an increase in loan approvals. It also trained 450 agricultural value chain participants on feedlot management, commodity export, and climate finance — interventions that are expected to yield long-term benefits for sectoral growth.

    Looking ahead, NIRSAL said it is developing a digital platform known as the NIRSAL LandBank Portal, designed to connect stakeholders across the agricultural ecosystem — from research and development to markets. The portal will provide data-driven insights to investors, policymakers, and development partners for identifying opportunities, reducing risk, and making informed decisions.

    The organisation added that the LandBank portal would also serve as a project development hub, particularly in climate finance. It recently signed a partnership with the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) to provide off-grid power to production and processing clusters in rural areas — a move NIRSAL believes will build resilience in agricultural value chains and support Nigeria’s vision of a $1 trillion economy.

    Since its establishment, NIRSAL has maintained its mandate of de-risking agricultural lending, promoting access to finance, and proving that agriculture is both bankable and sustainable. The 2025 performance, it said, signals “not just recovery, but a new era of confidence for Nigeria’s farmers, financiers, and the wider economy.”

  • NIRSAL facilitates N70bn in agribusiness financing

    NIRSAL facilitates N70bn in agribusiness financing

    …targets N150 billion by year-end

    The Nigeria Incentive-Based Risk Sharing System for Agricultural Lending (NIRSAL Plc) has facilitated over N70 billion in commercial financing for agribusinesses as of the third quarter of 2025, marking its strongest annual performance since inception.

    In a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja, the organisation said it remains confident of achieving its N150 billion target for 2025, reflecting renewed momentum in agricultural lending and investor confidence in the sector.

    According to NIRSAL, since it began operations in 2013, the latest result accounts for nearly a quarter of its cumulative N270 billion facilitated for agriculture and agribusiness to date. 

    The institution said this milestone represents “an achievement that reflects the impact of NIRSAL’s revamped strategy under its new Board and Executive Management.”

    The statement observed that this turnaround comes at a crucial time when bank lending to agriculture had been in steady decline. 

    “Bank lending to agriculture fell from 6.18 percent of aggregate lending in 2022 to 4.82 percent in 2024, while sectoral growth slowed from 2.5 percent to 1.7 percent within the same period,” it said.

    READ ALSO; Nigeria’s non-interest capital market hits N1.6tr

    NIRSAL noted that the application of its signature tools for value chain modelling, alongside targeted technical support and risk-sharing frameworks, has helped restore lender confidence in agribusiness financing. 

    “By applying its signature tools for value chain modelling to address identified issues, providing technical support to agribusinesses and financial institutions, all while deploying its risk-sharing frameworks, NIRSAL has restored lender confidence, thus channelling fresh funds into key value chains, including grains, cocoa, shea, and livestock,” the statement added.

    On impact, the institution disclosed that the financing surge has led to a tangible rise in local production and improved trade performance. 

    “There has been an improvement in local production across key commodities and a positive balance of trade for agriculture, with over 32 percent of the facilitated sum directly supporting value-added commodity export. Most notably, agriculture’s share of bank lending has risen again to 5.33 percent as of May 2025, reflecting renewed interest from financiers,” it stated.

    NIRSAL also revealed that two newly licensed banks have entered the agricultural finance space relying on its frameworks, contributing to the N70 billion already facilitated this year.

    Commenting on the milestone, NIRSAL Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Sa’ad Hamidu, said the result demonstrates the viability of sustainable agricultural financing. 

    “N70 billion may appear modest compared to the size of Nigeria’s agricultural financing needs, but the significance is profound. It proves that agriculture can be commercially and sustainably financed. With the right blend of capital, technical support, and risk mitigation, the sector can become more productive, resilient, and globally competitive,” Hamidu said.

    He noted that the organisation’s confidence in achieving its N150 billion annual target remains strong, given that the busiest period for agricultural financing is yet to begin. 

    “This is not yet the peak of the harvest season when merchants typically seek credit for offtake and storage, and when super agro-dealers stock up on fertilisers and inputs ahead of the next planting cycle. Therefore, the opportunities still to come give us every reason for optimism,” he explained.

    NIRSAL stated that beyond facilitating loans, it is reshaping the entire agricultural lending ecosystem through an integrated model that covers prospect identification, deal structuring, business advisory, and credit guarantees. 

    The model, according to the organisation, “handholds agribusinesses from loan origination to disbursement,” enabling them to transition from unbankable enterprises to sustainable borrowers.

    The statement noted that several agribusinesses that once relied on NIRSAL’s intervention have now evolved into regular clients of commercial banks, with lenders gaining deeper understanding of agricultural value chains and greater confidence in financing them. 

    “This proves that the NIRSAL model is a pathway to long-term sustainability in the agriculture sector,” it said.

    The N70 billion facilitated so far, NIRSAL explained, is the result of extensive capacity-building efforts across financial institutions. The organisation trained over 1,100 bank staff to improve their understanding of agricultural financing within NIRSAL’s risk-sharing framework, which has contributed to an increase in loan approvals. It also trained 450 agricultural value chain participants on feedlot management, commodity export, and climate finance — interventions that are expected to yield long-term benefits for sectoral growth.

    Looking ahead, NIRSAL said it is developing a digital platform known as the NIRSAL LandBank Portal, designed to connect stakeholders across the agricultural ecosystem — from research and development to markets. The portal will provide data-driven insights to investors, policymakers, and development partners for identifying opportunities, reducing risk, and making informed decisions.

    The organisation added that the LandBank portal would also serve as a project development hub, particularly in climate finance. It recently signed a partnership with the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) to provide off-grid power to production and processing clusters in rural areas — a move NIRSAL believes will build resilience in agricultural value chains and support Nigeria’s vision of a $1 trillion economy.

    Since its establishment, NIRSAL has maintained its mandate of de-risking agricultural lending, promoting access to finance, and proving that agriculture is both bankable and sustainable. 

    The 2025 performance, it said, signals “not just recovery, but a new era of confidence for Nigeria’s farmers, financiers, and the wider economy.”

  • Reps probe ₦1.12tr anchor borrowers fund, demand accountability from NIRSAL, BOI

    Reps probe ₦1.12tr anchor borrowers fund, demand accountability from NIRSAL, BOI

    The House of Representatives Committee on Nutrition and Food Security has commenced a probe into the N1.12 trillion spent on the Anchor Borrowers Programme (ABP).

    The Committee is also probing the NIRSAL Microfinance Bank for N215 billion spent on agrobusinesses as well as the Bank of Industry for disbursed 3 billion to 22, 120 small holder farmers through the agriculture value chain financing programme.

    Chairman of the Committee, Hon Chike Okafor, during an investigative hearing on the alleged misuse of government interventions and agricultural funding by departments, agencies, schemes and programmes of the federal Government raised concern that of the 24 participating financial institutions (PFIs) who disbursed the amount for the APB, they only had evidence of none of the institutions.

    He said one of the key oversight mandates of the Committee is to ensure proper implementation of intervention programmes by relevant MDAs of the government related to food security and nutrition.

    He said, “We are probing how the Central Bank of Nigeria, through the Anchors Borrowers Programme, disbursed about N1.12 trillion to 4.67 million farmers involved in either maize, rice or wheat farming through 563 anchors.

    “The CBN should note, we are aware that you have about 24 participating financial institutions (PFIs) through which you disburse these humongous amounts. I am also aware that you have written to 24 of them, but we have evidence of only nine. So please note. And also, some of those PFIs have tried to make contact.

    “Second point we are probing how NIRSAL disbursed N215, 066, 982, 074.50 so far to facilitate agriculture and agribusinesses. And also the Bank of Industry how you disbursed N3 billion to 22, 120 small holder farmers through the agriculture value chain financing programme.

    “One of the key oversight mandates of the Committee on Nutrition and Food Security is to ensure proper implementation of intervention programmes by relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) and agencies of government related to food security and nutrition. Investigations, monitoring of resource allocation, advancement of new laws and strengthening of existing ones, among others, on matters related to nutrition and food security.

    “These are comprehensively contained in the committee’s jurisdiction as captured in the standing order of the House. Please note that nutrition and food security are twin issues that cannot be separated and has been on the front burner of the renewed hope agenda of the present administration.

    “The creation of this committee on Nutrition and Food security is a legislative response to join forces with the executive arm of government and other stakeholders to tackle these issues and make Nigeria a food-secure and nourished populace,” he said.

    Read Also: Reps committees summon Finance Minister, CBN Governor over Auditor General’s report

    A representative of NIRSAL Microfinance Bank, Charles Bassey, said insecurity was a major challenge to the successful implementation of their loan scheme.

    He said in trying to determine who was qualified to benefit from the intervention, they paid attention very closely to laid down guidelines.

    “It was based on those guidelines that we disbursed these funds. Some of the challenges that they have written about include insecurity challenges. A couple of them had pointed out that after they had invested the funds in an agricultural business, they were not able to go back to the farms because of the experience of banditry and herdsmen. And these delayed their seasonal interventions and harvesting. Some also pointed to natural disasters such as flooding and drought, which affected them. A few of them actually asked for restructuring of the loan facility to allow them time to repay accordingly,” Bassey said.

    Group Head, Agric Finance and Solid Minerals, Sterling Bank, Olushola Obikanye, said they had repatriated N113, 490, 756, 332.54 to the CBN and were not owing under the scheme.

    “Therefore, the total fund repatriated to the Central Bank of Nigeria is the cumulative of the undisbursed funds that were returned and the disbursed funds that were returned. The total funds repatriated to the central bank stood at N113, 490, 756, 332.54. And it leaves Sterling Bank with an outstanding of zero naira zero kobo that we are owing under this scheme,” he said.

  • FG, NIRSAL train livestock producers to benefit from $2.5bn JBS deal

    FG, NIRSAL train livestock producers to benefit from $2.5bn JBS deal

    The federal government has commenced a capacity-building initiative to enable livestock value chain actors in Nigeria to benefit from the recently secured $2.5 billion Foreign Direct Investment (FDI).

    The deal secured by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu with global meatpacking firm JBS of Brazil is part of efforts to position Nigeria as a leading supplier of quality beef in local and international markets.

    The initiative is being spearheaded by the Nigeria Incentive-Based Risk Sharing System for Agricultural Lending (NIRSAL Plc) in collaboration with the newly established Federal Ministry of Livestock Development.

    At the core of this initiative is the Feedlot Management Training Programme launched by NIRSAL, which aims to strengthen technical competence, improve agribusiness practices, and align domestic beef production with international standards.

    In a statement issued on Tuesday, NIRSAL said the programme is designed “to address structural gaps in the livestock sector through a combination of technical training, risk-sharing incentives for lenders, end-to-end value chain support, and strategic partnerships between the public and private sectors.”

    The training commenced with the first cohort of participants drawn from key institutions and stakeholders in the livestock sector, including the Ministry of Livestock Development, the Agricultural Department of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), National Association of Cattle Dealers, Processors & Marketers of Nigeria (NACDPMAN), Amalgamated Union of Foodstuff and Cattle Dealers of Nigeria (AUFCDN), Maidoki Farms Ltd, among others.

    Speaking at the opening session of the training in Abuja, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NIRSAL Plc, Mr. Sa’ad Hamidu, said the programme is part of a broader strategy to create commercially viable and export-oriented agribusinesses by enhancing feed formulation, minimizing input waste, and optimizing livestock fattening cycles to achieve premium market value.

    “This is not just another training; it is a targeted intervention aimed at creating bankable agribusinesses,” he said. “As it is, we are preparing Nigerian livestock producers to feed not just the nation, but the world. And this aligns directly with the Federal Government’s vision for an agriculturally empowered, export-ready nation.”

    Mr. Hamidu noted that Nigeria is on the verge of emerging as a prime destination for global meat investment, with the JBS deal representing a major milestone in this transformation.

    Under the agreement signed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, six ultra-modern meat processing plants are to be built across the country, two of which will focus specifically on beef processing. This development is expected to stimulate significant demand for high-quality feedstock from local livestock producers, many of whom lack the training or financial support needed to meet the standards required for export.

    Read Also: Alleged forgery: Absence of judge stalls trial of ex-NIRSAL MD

    The Director of Ranch and Pastoral Resources Development in the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, Shekamang Ayuba, who was also among the trainees, described the programme as “eye-opening and apt,” and called for its rollout across all geopolitical zones to ensure widespread impact.

    Beyond the JBS partnership, NIRSAL disclosed that the meat value chain in Nigeria is attracting increased private sector interest. Notably, ABIS Group, a domestic firm, is also investing heavily in livestock development, further boosting the sector’s capacity to meet both domestic consumption and export targets.

    NIRSAL noted that the livestock sub-sector in Nigeria has long been constrained by poor-quality feed, outdated rearing techniques, and limited access to finance. However, with focused interventions like the Feedlot Management Training Programme, the sector could experience a long-awaited transformation.

    “Nigeria’s livestock sector, rich in potential but hampered by outdated practices, poor-quality feed, and limited financing, stands on the brink of genuine transformation,” the agency stated.

  • Alleged forgery: Absence of judge stalls trial of ex-NIRSAL MD

    Alleged forgery: Absence of judge stalls trial of ex-NIRSAL MD

    The absence of Justice Inyang Ekwo of a Federal High Court in Abuja yesterday stalled the trial of a former Managing Director of Nigeria Incentive-Based Risk Sharing System for Agricultural Lending (NIRSAL) Plc, Aliyu Abdulhameed.

    The matter, which was number two on the day’s cause list, could not proceed as Justice Ekwo was said to be in another official engagement.

    The case was subsequently fixed for November 25 for commencement of trial.

    Read Also: Before Lagos bans sachet water and other single-use plastics

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Abdulhameed and his co-defendant, Babangida Abdullahi, were arraigned on March 13 on a 10-count charge before the judge but pleaded not guilty to the counts.

    They were admitted to terms of administrative bail earlier granted to them by the police.

    The criminal charge, dated and filed on November 28, last year, was filed by the Legal/Prosecution Counsel of the Nigeria Police Force Headquarters, Celestine Odo, a Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP).

    In the charge, the defendants and others said to be on the run, were alleged to have, on or around October 23, last year, conspired among themselves to commit forgery.

  • NIRSAL gets new board

    NIRSAL gets new board

    The Federal Government has reconstituted the board of the Nigeria Incentive-Based Risk Sharing System for Agricultural Lending (NIRSAL Plc), appointing Mr. Babajide Arowosafe as the new Managing Director.

    Arowosafe, a development finance expert with experience from international organizations like the International Finance Corporation ( IFC), World Bank, and UNDP, brings a wealth of knowledge to his new role.

    His previous experience in both government and private sectors will undoubtedly be instrumental in steering NIRSAL Plc towards its core mandate of de-risking agricultural lending.

    The reconstituted board, which includes members from the Central Bank of Nigeria and other relevant sectors, was inaugurated at its 21st meeting on Tuesday, September 10, 2024.

    The new board members are: Mr. Muhammad Sani Abdullahi Deputy Governor, Economic Policy, Central Bank of Nigeria – Chairman; Mallam Ado Wanka, Non-Executive Director; Dr. Daphne Dafinone, Non-Executive Director; Mr. Hamidu Sa’ad Non-Executive Director; Dr. Bankole Allibay Non-Executive Director and Hon. Shehu Balarabe Non-Executive Director.

    Read Also: CBN Sacks NIRSAL executive directors

    In a statement released by NIRSAL Plc, the board members agreed on the need to refocus the company on its core mandate. This aligns with the Federal Government’s commitment to promoting agricultural development and ensuring food security in Nigeria.

    NIRSAL Plc, established to address the challenges faced by agricultural lenders, plays a crucial role in creating an enabling environment for agricultural financing.

    With the new board in place and a renewed focus on its core mandate, the company is poised to make significant contributions to the growth of the agricultural sector in Nigeria.

  • NIRSAL targets 100,000 farmers in agro training

    NIRSAL targets 100,000 farmers in agro training

    The Nigeria Incentive-Based Risk Sharing System for Agricultural Lending (NIRSAL Plc) has set a target of reaching 100,000 farmers across the country through its Agro Geo-Cooperative training programme.

    The initiative aims to support the federal government’s food security agenda by empowering farmers and enhancing agricultural productivity.

    NIRSAL’s Head of Value Chain Capacity Development, Ibrahim Suleiman, disclosed the target at the conclusion of a midyear capacity development programme for aquaculture and cassava value chain actors in Imo, Sokoto, Kwara, and Oyo states.

    Read Also; ILO: child labour threatening school attendance, health

    The programme trained over 2,000 lead farmers and extension agents, who are expected to cascade the knowledge to an additional 40,000 farmers.

    The Agro Geo-Cooperative model, a core component of NIRSAL’s strategy, focuses on organizing smallholder farmers into cohesive groups with robust governance structures. This approach facilitates access to finance, inputs, and mechanization services, leading to increased yields and improved market access.

    Imo State House Committee Chairman on Agriculture, Uche Agabige, commended NIRSAL for its efforts in boosting agricultural productivity in the state.

    NIRSAL’s commitment to training and capacity building is expected to have a significant impact on the agricultural sector, contributing to food security and economic growth in Nigeria.

  • NIRSAL trains over 1,000 farmers, agents for bumper wheat harvest

    NIRSAL trains over 1,000 farmers, agents for bumper wheat harvest

    In a major push to support the Federal Government’s food security agenda, NIRSAL Plc is training over 1,000 extension agents and farmers in Jigawa State to achieve a record-breaking wheat harvest this year.

    This initiative, under the National Agricultural Growth Scheme and Agro Pocket (NAGS-AP)/Jigawa Wheat Cluster Project, targets five key zones – Kiyawa, Birnin Kudu, Ringim, Hadejia, and Kazaure.

    A statement from NIRSAL Plc said the first phase of the training, focusing on Group Dynamics, “equipped 355 extension agents and 706 farmer cluster leaders with valuable knowledge.”

    NIRSAL believes creating an environment where farmers can efficiently capture value at the farm level is crucial for loan repayment, financial stability, and overall agricultural growth.

    “Optimising value on farms allows farmers to better manage subsequent processes like value addition and product sales,” explained Ibrahim Suleiman, leader of the NIRSAL training team. “This, in turn, leads to better profit control, equitable sharing, and timely loan repayment.”

    Recognising the challenges banks face in financing primary agriculture due to inherent risks, NIRSAL Plc has developed models to de-risk this critical segment of the agricultural value chain.

    “The Federal Government is leading the charge towards food security,” stated Abbas Umar Masanawa, Managing Director/CEO of NIRSAL Plc. “We are here to support Jigawa and all other states in achieving this vision, offering our expertise through training, database building, and more.”

    Masanawa’s recent pledge to the Minister of Agriculture underscores NIRSAL’s unwavering commitment to the food security agenda through capacity building, innovation, and data-driven solutions.

    Participants are expected to share their acquired knowledge and training materials with their respective clusters, ensuring widespread dissemination of best practices. This knowledge transfer is vital for project success and long-term impact.

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    Beyond Group Dynamics, the training programme delves into crucial aspects like: Geo-cooperative cluster formation. Here, farmers learn to come together based on land proximity and shared commitment for collaboration.

    The Jigawa State Government is facilitating collaboration with vital stakeholders like the African Development Bank, Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc, and Super Agro Dealers who are supplying essential inputs. This collaborative approach fosters an enabling environment for project success and agricultural transformation.

    With extensive training, innovative risk-mitigation models, and strong institutional partnerships, the Jigawa Wheat Cluster Project promises to be a game-changer for food security in Nigeria. By empowering farmers and promoting efficient agricultural practices, this initiative holds the potential to secure sustainable food production and boost the nation’s agricultural standing.