Canada Boosts Agricultural & Entrepreneurial Growth for Women in Nigeria

• With over ₦20.2 billion (Can$19.2 million) in funding, Canada strengthens Agriculture in three Nigerian states
•  The initiative is a boost to agribusiness for women and youth-led enterprises
• 8,000 new employment opportunities will be generated

The Resilient and Inclusive Agri-food System Empowering Women and Youth (RISE), will provide direct support to women and youth-led enterprises in Kano, Bauchi, and Kaduna. This Canadian initiative is set to drive agricultural innovation and economic opportunities for women and youth in Nigeria.

With a funding commitment exceeding ₦20.2 billion (Can$19.2 million), the program is designed to boost food production and sustainability in the selected Nigerian states. Focusing on women and youth, the project will invest in 450 agribusinesses owned or led by women and youth, alongside 250 smallholder cooperatives. It aims to drive inclusive economic growth and enhance resilience by adding 8,000 new employment opportunities.

The Mennonite Economic Development Associates (MEDA) of Canada, in partnership with Nigerian organizations, will spearhead this five-year initiative to drive economic growth. By increasing productivity and climate adaptability, the initiative will empower smallholder farmers. It will also elevate the success of women youth-owned micro, small, and medium enterprises.

Riding high on a rich history of collaboration and partnership, Canada is investing over $869.5 million to fund more than 50 international development and humanitarian initiatives across the continent. These commitments will accelerate economic development, climate action, and governance improvement while strengthening health systems and peace efforts. Canada’s bilateral investment over the last five years has bolstered humanitarian aid while driving long-term and sustainable development in Africa.