Nigeria has reinforced its partnership with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) in a renewed effort to address food insecurity and strengthen the country’s agricultural systems.
The initiative, built around the Food Security Emergency Loan Support Programme, is anchored by a ¥15 billion loan facility—equivalent to roughly $110 million—intended to boost domestic food production and shield rural communities from global supply disruptions.
Finance Minister and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, and Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, met with senior JICA officials in Abuja to advance the programme’s implementation. With the rainy season now underway, both ministers called for swift action to ensure timely support for farmers.
“The window to make a meaningful impact this planting season is narrow. We must act decisively,” Edun said during the meeting, underscoring the urgency of coordinated delivery.
JICA acknowledged Nigeria’s commitment and sought further clarity on proposed adjustments to the rollout. It was agreed that core agricultural production components would move ahead immediately under the existing framework. Meanwhile, additional aspects such as crop aggregation and access to agricultural financing will undergo further review to ensure compliance with the original loan terms.
The expanded cooperation reflects the determination of both governments to address structural challenges in Nigeria’s food system. It also aligns with broader efforts to stimulate rural economies and drive long-term development.
For millions of Nigerians facing rising food costs and climate-related agricultural stress, the initiative is expected to offer both immediate relief and lasting benefits.