The long-term development of Nigeria’s agricultural sector is hinged on the preparedness of succeeding generations (the youth) to take over from the aging population of farmers in the country. Only a few young people see a future for themselves in agriculture, and this threatens the development of the sector.
Empowerment Initiatives
One of the reasons for youth apathy towards agriculture is the drudgery associated with agriculture, limited access to finance, the unfavorable business environment, and lack of basic social amenities in rural areas where agricultural lands abound.
BATN Foundation seeks to encourage and support the youth to be involved in sustainable agriculture through the Farmers for the Future Project (F4F). This project targets final year students of Agriculture across all academic institutions in Nigeria and provides access to finance, skills development, and mentorship opportunities needed to thrive in the sector.
Farmers For the future Grant
The Farmers for the Future (F4F) Grant is an Agricultural Entrepreneurship grant designed to support young people with viable Agri-Business with equity-free capital and other associated support they may require to scale their businesses. The project is an initiative developed and sponsored by the British American Tobacco Nigeria Foundation (BATNF) in partnership with NYSC and implemented by Fate Foundation.
lagos farm fair initiative
BATN Foundation in partnership with the Lagos State Government will organize an annual Farm Fair to create market linkage for smallholder farmers. It is expected that the Fair will be a business platform to expose farmers to opportunities in urban areas without any financial burden or risks and with highly-rated maid services, help showcase the quality and variety of their Farm Produce and open their horizon to new Agri- business opportunities.