By Kayode Abdulazeez
The Federal Government of Nigeria has extended its partnership on the Presidential Initiative for Youth Empowerment in Agriculture, known as the Green Money Project, to the University of Ilorin as part of its broader national food security agenda.
On April 24, 2025, a delegation from the Green Money Project visited the University. The delegation included the Project Coordinator, Mr. Charles Olufemi Folayan; Representative of the Special Adviser to the President on Agriculture, Engr. Hakeem Olugbode; and the Project Consultant, Prof. Musa Ahmed.
During the visit, the Special Assistant to the President on Agriculture, Hon. Abiodun Yinusa, highlighted that the Green Money Project was officially launched at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) on Tuesday, April 22, 2025.
He emphasized that the initiative represents more than just another government program it marks the unveiling of a national vision inspired by the Renewed Hope Agenda of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.
This vision prioritizes food security, youth empowerment, and the transformation of Nigeria’s economy through sustainable, green initiatives.
“This is a call to action,” he said, “a strategic effort to revolutionize agriculture by placing youth at the forefront. We aim to redefine agriculture as a field driven by innovation, technology, entrepreneurship, and sustainability. Our universities must serve as hubs for this transformation.”
He acknowledged the University of Ilorin’s longstanding commitment to academic excellence, impactful research, and national development, describing the institution as a natural partner for the Green Money Project.
“As we implement this initiative across all six geopolitical zones, our goal is to equip each region and participating institution with the tools, training, and resources required to drive sustainable agricultural innovation,” he added.
Mr. Folayan, the Project Coordinator, further explained that the Green Money Project aims to attract, train, and empower young Nigerians by enhancing their skills in modern agriculture, including mechanization, climate-smart farming, and digital technologies, ultimately fostering the growth of agribusiness across the nation.
He noted that the initiative is a collaborative effort with key federal ministries, departments, and agencies, in partnership with NGOs, donor organizations, corporate bodies, and international development partners.
The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Professor Wahab Egbewole, reaffirmed the university’s commitment to youth development, particularly through entrepreneurship and agriculture-focused training.
He stated that the university is fully prepared to partner with the Federal Government on the Green Money Project, a collaboration he believes will significantly enhance capacity, increase food production, and contribute meaningfully toward achieving the initiative’s zero hunger mandate.
The Project Consultant Professor Musa Ahmed assured the University that the project implementation model would add great value to Food Security drive of the current administration.
