Northern Nigerian states have welcomed a new €18.3 million agriculture support programme funded by the European Union (EU) and the German government, aimed at boosting food production, improving livelihoods, and promoting climate-smart farming across the region.

The initiative, announced this week, is designed to strengthen agricultural value chains, expand job opportunities, and enhance food security in communities facing declining yields, climate pressures, and economic challenges.

According to officials, the programme will channel funds into modernising farming practices, supporting smallholder farmers, and introducing technologies that help crops withstand climate change. Several northern states applauded the intervention, describing it as timely and capable of transforming the region’s agricultural landscape.

The EU–German partnership is expected to provide technical expertise, training, and capacity-building for farmers’ cooperatives and local institutions key elements for ensuring long-term sustainability beyond the programme’s duration.

While detailed state allocations and timelines have yet to be released, early indications show a focus on priority crops such as rice and other essential staples.

Agricultural stakeholders in the North expressed optimism that the initiative will boost production and expand economic opportunities for youth and women in the sector.

The project forms part of broader efforts by international partners to strengthen Nigeria’s food systems and build resilience against climate-driven disruptions. Visit www.jocomms.com for more news.