FCMB Supports Launch of FMYD-IITA Youth Agribusiness Land Trust Fund

The Federal Ministry of Youth Development (FMYD), together with the International Institute for Tropical Agriculture (IITA), has inaugurated the National Youth in Agribusiness Land Trust Fund (YiALTF). The fund is designed to enhance land access and unlock opportunities for more than 500,000 young Nigerians who are establishing sustainable agribusiness ventures.

First City Monument Bank (FCMB) is supporting the initiative, which tackles a major obstacle for young agripreneurs: access to land. The program also paves the way for financing, enterprise development, job creation, and long‑term economic growth.

At the launch, Honourable Minister of Youth Development Ayodele Olawande described the fund as a significant step toward transforming youth participation in agriculture and positioning agribusiness as a key driver of economic empowerment.

Earlier, Senator Atiku Bagudu, Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, praised the launch as evidence of Nigeria’s collective commitment to empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs and strengthening the country’s agricultural sector.

He added that the initiative will dismantle long‑standing barriers to land ownership and access, creating an environment where youth‑led agribusinesses can thrive.

Representing FCMB at the event, Divisional Head of Agribusiness and Non‑Oil Export Kudzai Gumunyu reaffirmed the bank’s dedication to supporting projects that make agriculture more attractive, profitable, and financeable for young people.

“The future of Nigerian agriculture depends on how well we structure financing and support systems around the realities of young people and the sector. Agriculture must be presented as a modern, technology‑driven business offering opportunities in logistics, processing, commodity trading, mechanisation, digital platforms, and innovation,” he said.