The Federal Government of Nigeria has introduced agricultural insurance as a key component of its National Agricultural Growth Scheme Agro-Pocket (NAGS-AP) program, a strategic move designed to mitigate agricultural risks and bolster food security. This development was announced by the Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Aliyu Abdullahi, during a recent workshop held in Abuja to discuss the implementation of the NAGS-AP program.
The NAGS-AP program, which initially focused on wheat cultivation during the 2023 dry season, is an intervention initiative aimed at supporting farmers and enhancing agricultural productivity. The inclusion of agricultural insurance is intended to safeguard investments and ensure the sustainability of the program’s outcomes. Sen. Abdullahi emphasized that the workshop was convened to educate stakeholders about the benefits and features of this new insurance component, which is crucial for protecting the investments made by both the government and its financing partner, the African Development Bank (AfDB).
“We are gathered here to discuss and agree on incorporating agricultural insurance into the NAGS-AP program, which began with wheat cultivation in the 2023 dry season,” Abdullahi stated. He highlighted the program’s success so far, noting that favorable weather conditions have led to a bountiful harvest. However, the primary objective remains to protect these gains and ensure the sustainability of local food systems amid a growing population.
The integration of agricultural insurance into the NAGS-AP program represents a proactive approach to addressing the inherent risks associated with farming, such as adverse weather conditions and other uncertainties. By providing financial protection against these risks, the program aims to enhance farmers’ resilience, secure their investments, and contribute to the overall stability of Nigeria’s food supply.
The workshop provided a platform for stakeholders to discuss the details of the insurance coverage and its implementation, ensuring that all parties are well-informed and prepared to support the program’s objectives. The Federal Government’s initiative, in collaboration with the AfDB, underscores a commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s agricultural sector and advancing food security through innovative and supportive measures.
