NALDA, Agro-Allied Firm Partner to Empower Smallholder Farmers

The National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA) has partnered with Arzikin Noma, a major player in the agro-allied sector, to address food insecurity, reduce inflation, and empower smallholder farmers. 

AgroNigeria gathered that the partnership, formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), is designed to unite the private sector, government, and development partners in tackling the country’s agricultural challenges. 

This collaboration aims to create a more resilient agricultural system in Nigeria.

According to Michael Adeshola, the Group Managing Director of Arzikin Noma, the project will begin with the development of farmlands in Ora, and will later expand to 35 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). 

He noted that the initiative is a key step toward achieving food sovereignty in the country and eradicating hunger. 

Adeshola emphasized that the company is committed to transforming Nigeria’s agriculture through strategic partnerships and farmer empowerment.

Arzikin Noma operates across several agricultural value chains, focusing on crops like maize, sorghum, soya, sesame, cowpea, millet, and paddy rice. 

He revealed that the company partners with over 500,000 model farmers across various states, including Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Jigawa, Gombe, Oyo, and Kwara. 

He noted that Arzikin Noma supports these farmers by providing access to finance, agricultural knowledge, and climate-smart practices. 

He further explained that the company ensures guaranteed markets for quality crops that meet both local and export standards.

The company’s partnerships with organizations such as Nestlé, the World Food Programme, Cadbury, Flourmills, and Olam Hybrid reflect its commitment to using locally sourced raw materials for local markets. 

Adeshola added that Arzikin Noma is dedicated to empowering women, youth, and disadvantaged groups, aligning with the firm’s belief in local solutions to local challenges.

Adeshola also praised the Nigerian government’s focus on involving youth in agriculture, calling it a key development for the nation. According to him, the partnership marks a turning point for Nigeria’s agricultural future. 

He highlighted NALDA’s ambitious plan to unlock 10 million hectares of land for agricultural use over the next decade under the leadership of Dr. Cornelius Adebayo. 

He noted that this plan will play a significant role in reshaping Nigeria’s agricultural landscape.

Adeshola further stated that agriculture employs about 65 percent of the Nigerian population, and stressed the importance of prioritizing food security. 

He emphasized that treating food security as an emergency is essential for achieving food sovereignty. 

With the current administration’s focus on agriculture and the involvement of youth, he said, Nigeria is on track to become a net exporter of food to Africa and beyond in the nearest future.