By Kemi Akinseye
Efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s agricultural value chain are gaining momentum as stakeholders intensify collaboration to eliminate long-standing bottlenecks that limit farmers’ productivity and profitability.In
In Niger State, a renewed push to connect farmers directly with input suppliers and financial institutions is offering a pathway toward a more efficient and inclusive agroecosystem.
In a deliberate move to bridge persistent gaps within the agricultural ecosystem, key players across the value chain have convened in Niger State to foster stronger linkages between farmers, agro-input dealers, and financial institutions.
The strategic stakeholders’ forum, held in Minna, was organised by the Sasakawa Africa Association under its maize and soybean farming system project, with funding support from the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa.
Speaking at the engagement, the Project Coordinator, Isaac Eni, explained that the initiative is designed to enhance farmers’ access to essential agricultural inputs and financial services, while improving the overall productivity and competitiveness of smallholder farmers involved in maize and soybean cultivation.
He noted that the forum was strategically convened ahead of the 2026 cropping season to enable stakeholders to critically assess inefficiencies within the value chain and develop practical, results-driven solutions.
According to Eni, the engagement went beyond routine discussions, providing a platform for direct interaction, negotiation, and collaboration among farmers, agro-dealers, and financial service providers. This, he said, would empower farmers to make informed decisions, particularly in identifying and procuring genuine farm inputs and accessing tailored financing options.
The initiative also prioritised capacity building, with extension agents and community-based advisers receiving training to support farmers in key areas such as access to quality inputs, improved agronomic practices, harvesting techniques, storage solutions, and market linkages.
In addition, agro-dealers and input suppliers were equipped with knowledge on improved seed varieties, fertiliser application, and the safe handling of agrochemicals, while farmers themselves were trained in modern farming practices, post-harvest management, and agribusiness development.
“Preparatory to this year’s cropping season, a forum like this is designed to connect farmers directly with input suppliers and financial institutions for timely access to quality inputs and financial services,” Eni said.
He added that the initiative is anchored on promoting transparency in pricing and strengthening business relationships across the agricultural value chain, while also encouraging farmers to embrace agriculture as a viable and profitable enterprise.
Observers say such coordinated efforts could significantly improve efficiency within Nigeria’s agroecosystem, particularly in staple crop production, where weak linkages have long constrained growth.
