The Federal Government of Nigeria, in collaboration with Germany and the European Union, on Wednesday launched the €18.3 million EU-VACE TARED Project, a four-year initiative to modernize agriculture through climate-smart practices and inclusive value chain development.
The project — Agriculture Value Chain Facility: Transformative Agricultural Systems for Rural Economic Development — will focus on cocoa, dairy, tomatoes, and ginger. Running from October 2024 to September 2028, it will be implemented by Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) in partnership with Nigeria’s ministries of Budget and Planning, and Agriculture and Food Security.
Seven states — Cross River, Kano, Kaduna, Kebbi, Ondo, Oyo, and Plateau — have been designated as hubs. The program aims to improve food security, expand economic opportunities for youth and women, and reduce post-harvest losses.
Minister of State for Agriculture, Aliyu Abdullahi, said the initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. “It will enhance coordination, promote value addition, and build systems that protect farmers and consumers,” he said, announcing a steering committee to oversee transparency and results.
Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Maiha, noted the dairy sector’s importance, citing Nigeria’s $1.5 billion annual dairy import bill. He said the project would help build local industries, create jobs, and reduce imports.
EU Ambassador to Nigeria, Gautier Mignot, described the effort as part of the EU’s Global Gateway strategy, highlighting its focus on youth, women, and climate resilience. Germany’s Deputy Head of Mission, Johannes Lehne, called it a “strategic investment” in Nigeria’s agricultural future.
The project will support smallholder farmers and MSMEs with finance, skills, and market access, while promoting climate-smart practices to strengthen Nigeria’s agricultural economy.
