AUDA–NEPAD Nigeria in collaboration with the Yobe State Government has officially launched the innovative Strengthening of Smallholder Farmers Initiative and the Youth Smart Irrigation Intervention Program, marking a major milestone in the state’s drive to transform agriculture, boost food production, and empower young farmers.
The flag-off ceremony, held on Friday, 5th December 2025, brought together top government officials, AUDA–NEPAD representatives, traditional rulers, stakeholders in the agriculture sector, and beneficiaries from across the state’s 17 Local Government Areas.
Representing the National CoordinatorCEO of AUDA–NEPAD Nigeria, Hon. Jabiru Salisu Abdullahi, the Head of Legal Unit, Barr. Abbas Ibrahim, commended Yobe State for emerging among the seven pioneer states benefiting from the AU-led Smallholder Farmers Program. He stressed that the grants and agricultural inputs represent a major investment in the future of rural farmers and encouraged beneficiaries to work with transparency and diligence. He further announced that a Monitoring and Evaluation team from AUDA–NEPAD Continental (South Africa) would soon visit the state to assess progress.
Representing the Governor, His Excellency Hon. Mai Mala Buni CON, the Deputy Speaker of the Yobe State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Ya’u Usman Dachia, officially launched the program and reaffirmed the state’s commitment to modernizing agriculture through irrigation, climate-smart technologies, and value-chain development. He emphasized that climate instability and irregular rainfall make it necessary to embrace year-round farming supported by modern innovation.
The Governor described the Smart Irrigation Initiative as a strategic effort geared toward empowering youth, strengthening resilience, and bridging food supply gaps. He urged beneficiaries to use the tools, grants, and training provided responsibly, noting that their success will determine the program’s expansion to additional communities.
In his goodwill message, the Executive Secretary and AUDA–NEPAD State Coordinator, Alh. Shettima Kachalla, highlighted the significance of the Youth Smart Irrigation Program as a key milestone aligned with the state’s vision for climate-smart agriculture. He reaffirmed AUDA–NEPAD’s commitment to supporting Yobe State in strengthening livelihoods, promoting food security, and enhancing post-conflict recovery.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Chairman of Focal Persons, Mr. Ali Usman Rambo, appreciated AUDA–NEPAD and the Yobe State Government for the partnership that made the program possible. He encouraged beneficiaries to make effective use of the grants and inputs to improve productivity and stimulate economic growth.
The Chairman of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Yobe State Chapter, Alh. Usman Ngari, also commended the initiative and urged farmers to demonstrate commitment in order to attract future agricultural investments to the state.
A beneficiary representative, Mallam Kalli, expressed gratitude to AUDA–NEPAD, the State Government, and the Ministry of Agriculture for ensuring that Yobe farmers benefit from this life-changing intervention. He assured that the grants would be utilized to enhance livelihoods and contribute to the state’s agricultural development.
The event concluded with the distribution of planting materials and grants to beneficiaries, followed by group photographs.
Signed
Akinwale Iyabo (Mrs)
ADHead (Media and PR)
AUDA-NEPAD Nigeria
5th December, 2025
