The beneficiaries were recognised at a training and induction ceremony held recently in Abuja. The programme is designed to encourage young Nigerians to explore agriculture as a viable route to business ownership, job creation and financial independence.

Speaking about the programme’s progress, SOBAI National Coordinator, Emmanuel Bidi, disclosed that 1,121 participants registered for the Abuja training, while 837 successfully completed the programme.

He explained that the initiative equips participants with practical knowledge and technical skills to establish agricultural businesses and explore opportunities across different segments of the agricultural value chain.

Bidi also revealed that SOBAI, working in partnership with Praise Agrovet, has trained and empowered 64,734 young people across the Federal Capital Territory and Nasarawa, Niger, Kogi, Benue and Kano states since the programme commenced.

The training covers various agricultural enterprises, including poultry production, fish farming and goat rearing, alongside other areas of agricultural production. These activities are intended to equip participants with the capacity to establish businesses, supply food products and contribute to economic activities within their communities.

Beyond its existing training programmes, SOBAI plans to establish and activate 34 agricultural training centres offering programmes accredited by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE).

The initiative has also set an ambitious target of reaching 20 million Nigerian youths by 2030 as part of its broader efforts to strengthen youth participation in agriculture.

Its expansion strategy includes providing free agricultural training every quarter across the country and establishing branded farms in all 36 states.

According to the initiative’s plans, these farms will function as research and training facilities, as well as industrial attachment centres. Members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) are also expected to benefit from the industrial attachment opportunities.

Addressing the requirements for improved agricultural production, Bidi highlighted the importance of quality animal feed, veterinary products and skilled personnel in maintaining livestock health and increasing productivity.

He stressed that these elements are necessary for effective livestock management and the development of sustainable agricultural enterprises.

The SOBAI National Coordinator further urged government agencies, private-sector organisations, community leaders and youth groups to support agricultural education and entrepreneurship.

He also encouraged young Nigerians to consider agriculture as an avenue for earning income, creating employment opportunities and establishing sustainable businesses.

Through its activities, SOBAI seeks to widen access to practical agricultural education while increasing the involvement of young people in food production.

Achieving its long-term objectives will depend on the execution of its proposed training and expansion programmes, alongside partnerships that enable beneficiaries to convert their agricultural knowledge and skills into viable businesses.

SOURCE: MSME Africa Online