Green Money: Varsities must serve as hubs for agricultural transformation – FG

The Federal Government has extended its partnership on the Presidential Initiative for Youth Empowerment in Agriculture, known as the Green Money Project, to the University of Ilorin as part of its broader national food security agenda. Speaking during the visit, representative of the Special Adviser to the President on Agriculture, Engr. Hakeem Olugbode, said the […]

The Federal Government has extended its partnership on the Presidential Initiative for Youth Empowerment in Agriculture, known as the Green Money Project, to the University of Ilorin as part of its broader national food security agenda.

Speaking during the visit, representative of the Special Adviser to the President on Agriculture, Engr. Hakeem Olugbode, said the project marks the unveiling of a national vision inspired by the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

According to him, this vision prioritizes food security, youth empowerment and the transformation of Nigeria’s economy through sustainable, green initiatives.

“This is a call to action and a strategic effort to revolutionize agriculture by placing youth at the forefront.

“We aim to redefine agriculture as a field driven by innovation, technology, entrepreneurship, and sustainability. Our universities must serve as hubs for this transformation”, he said.

He stated that the university of Ilọrin is a natural partner for the Green Money Project because of its longstanding commitment to academic excellence, impactful research, and national development.

“As we implement this initiative across all six geopolitical zones, our goal is to equip each region and participating institution with the tools, training, and resources required to drive sustainable agricultural innovation,” he added.

The Project Coordinator, Mr. Charles Olufemi Folayan, in his remarks, explained that the Green Money Project aims to attract, train, and empower young Nigerians by enhancing their skills in modern agriculture.

“This included mechanization, climate-smart farming, and digital technologies to foster growth of agribusiness across the nation.

He noted that the initiative is a collaborative effort with key federal ministries, departments, and agencies, in partnership with NGOs, donor organizations, corporate bodies, and international development partners.

Vice-Chancellor, University of Ilorin, Prof Wahab Egbewole, for his part, reaffirmed the university’s commitment to youth development, particularly through entrepreneurship and agriculture-focused training.

He stated that the university is fully prepared to partner with the Federal Government on the initiative adding that the collaboration will significantly enhance capacity, increase food production, and contribute meaningfully toward achieving the initiative’s zero hunger mandate.

The Project Consultant, Professor Musa Ahmed assured the University that the project implementation model would add great value to Food Security drive of the current administration.

The initiative was launched at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) on Tuesday by the federal government.