The Federal Government of Nigeria, in collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), has reaffirmed its strategic commitment to strengthening national food systems in response to evolving global supply chain disruptions.
In a significant engagement held today in Abuja, the Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, alongside the Honourable Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, convened with senior JICA officials to deepen implementation modalities for the Food Security Emergency Loan Support Programme.
Director of Information and Public Relations, Mohammed Manga in a statement indicated that the programme—anchored on a concessional loan valued at JPY 15 billion (approximately $110 million)—is structured to enhance Nigeria’s agricultural resilience, bolster local food production, and safeguard vulnerable communities against external shocks.
With the onset of the 2025 rainy season, both ministers underscored the urgency of accelerating intervention timelines to achieve maximum impact on agricultural productivity and rural livelihoods. In this regard, parties reached consensus to proceed immediately with core production activities, while ongoing deliberations continue on the scope and structure of ancillary components such as produce aggregation and access to financing.
JICA expressed satisfaction with the Nigerian Government’s proactive approach and reaffirmed its readiness to support the programme’s timely and effective delivery. Clarifications on technical adjustments will be finalized in line with the existing framework of the bilateral agreement.
This renewed partnership signaled the unwavering resolve of both governments to address food insecurity at scale, enhance economic resilience, and promote sustainable development.