The United Kingdom has announced a fresh investment of $7.5 million to finance agricultural projects in Nigeria, aimed at strengthening food security and boosting the sector’s contribution to economic growth.
According to a statement issued by the British High Commission in Abuja, the funds will be channeled through the UK-funded Mobilising Finance for Agriculture (MFA) programme, which works with banks and financial institutions to expand lending to smallholder farmers and agribusinesses.
The investment is expected to unlock greater access to credit, provide technical support, and improve agricultural value chains across the country. The UK government noted that the initiative would also help address rising food inflation in Nigeria by enhancing productivity and ensuring more efficient supply systems.
British Deputy High Commissioner, Jonny Baxter, said the intervention reflects the UK’s commitment to supporting Nigeria in tackling food security challenges. He stressed that agriculture remains central to job creation, poverty reduction, and economic stability, adding that the programme will also encourage climate-smart practices to build resilience against environmental shocks.
The Nigerian government welcomed the initiative, describing it as a timely support for ongoing reforms in the agricultural sector. Officials noted that the partnership would not only improve farmers’ access to finance but also strengthen Nigeria’s long-term food systems.
Analysts believe the investment could help reduce Nigeria’s dependence on food imports, while empowering millions of small-scale farmers across rural communities.
