Women in Agric get NADF, GIZ promises on inclusive finance

 The National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF) and the German Development Cooperation (GIZ) have reaffirmed their joint commitment to transforming Nigeria’s agricultural sector through the implementation of women gender-inclusive with climate-smart financing strategies.

This joint position was taken at a high-level validation workshop held in Abuja recently where government officials, development partners, and agricultural stakeholders converged to finalize a comprehensive financing framework aimed at empowering millions of women and youths with tailored access to agricultural resources and support systems.

Speaking at the event Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, described the initiative as a practical step toward “resilience, inclusivity, and prosperity” in Nigeria’s food systems" saying that the conversation is meant to fathom a strategic shift to financing most vulnerable farmers especially women and youths in Nigeria.

The new financing model jointly developed by NADF and GIZ seeks beyond conventional credit systems to encompassing mechanization, extension services, digital financial tools, advisory support, and risk-sharing mechanisms that will enhance women and youth toward self-sufficiency and resilience.

NADF, Executive Secretary, Mohammed Ibrahim echoed the urgency to assist women and younger farmers saying “Our mission is simple but bold: unlock financing that works for every Nigerian farmer, regardless of gender, location, or background"

Ibrahim posited a scenario where financing, insurance, and mechanization were bundled into a ‘pay-as-you-plant’ model for a woman farmer to access microloans straight to her mobile wallet.

Ibrahim however urged that “Let’s build a financing model that doesn’t sit on a shelf but lives in our farmlands, markets, and the lives of our farmers"

Representing GIZ, Dr. Andrea Rutiger reaffirmed Germany’s long-standing partnership with Nigeria in driving agricultural innovation saying that food systems are not just about feeding people but rather to enhance the economies, livelihoods and environment

Rutiger encouraged stakeholders to implement the framework’s key recommendations, including expanding non-collateralized loans, boosting institutional coordination, and promoting sustainable, climate-resilient practices. She also highlighted the ongoing German-supported initiatives like the ACCESS project, which promotes nutrition, sustainability, and renewable energy in agriculture.

Chairman of the Senate Committee on Agriculture Production and Rural Development, Senator Saliu Mustapha stressed the importance of technology saying that “If we are to feed a growing population, we must ensure technology drives this initiative forward"