The Federal Government of Nigeria has launched a N1 billion reform of the country’s agricultural education system. This initiative is designed to bolster food security, generate employment, and stimulate economic growth across the nation.

The announcement was made on March 27 via the Presidency Nigeria's X (formerly Twitter) account, signalling a significant shift in agricultural training within Nigerian tertiary institutions. Agricultural education encompasses structured teaching in farming, agribusiness, and related sciences, including crop production, livestock management, soil science, agricultural technology, and value chain development.

The reform's objective is to equip learners with practical skills and knowledge essential for improving food production, managing agricultural enterprises, and contributing to national food systems. This involves modernising the curriculum with a focus on hands-on learning and industry-relevant competencies.

Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, stated that the initiative will implement a practical, skills-driven model in tertiary institutions. Students are expected to dedicate 60% to 70% of their training to hands-on activities in key agricultural sectors. He also highlighted the importance of fostering collaboration between the education and agriculture ministries to develop a workforce capable of driving productivity and innovation.

This reform is part of ongoing government efforts to revitalise Nigeria’s agricultural sector, which has faced challenges including insecurity. Previous initiatives include the approval of a N250 billion facility for the Bank of Agriculture in March 2026 to support smallholder farmers with single-digit interest rates. Additionally, the Bank of Agriculture secured a $1 billion intervention facility with the African Export-Import Bank in September 2025 and a $200 million livelihood support fund with the International Organization for Migration in October 2025.