Nigeria has taken another step toward inclusive economic growth as the Federal Government, in partnership with the International Fund for Agricultural Development’s Value Chain Development Programme (IFAD-VCDP), trained women and young people at an Innovation Clinic in Taraba State, northeastern Nigeria.
The initiative reflects a broader national strategy to modernise agriculture, strengthen rural livelihoods, and position agribusiness as a driver of jobs and economic resilience. By focusing on women and youths, the programme targets groups widely recognised as essential to sustainable development but often excluded from access to skills, finance, and innovation networks.
The Innovation Clinic served as a practical learning hub rather than a traditional classroom. Participants engaged in hands-on training covering modern agricultural techniques, value-addition processes, and agribusiness management. Through this approach, the programme emphasised action, problem-solving, and adaptability, which are increasingly vital in today’s global food systems.
Importantly, the training addressed the entire agricultural value chain. Participants learned how to improve productivity at the farm level while also exploring processing, packaging, quality assurance, and market access. This value-chain focus helps small producers move beyond subsistence activities toward commercially viable enterprises that can compete in regional and international markets.
Women played a central role in the programme. Facilitators tailored sessions to address challenges women commonly face in agribusiness, including limited access to technical knowledge and professional networks. As a result, participants gained both practical skills and the confidence to expand their operations and participate more actively in local economies.
Youth engagement also stood out as a key pillar. By introducing innovation-driven agriculture and entrepreneurship, the programme encouraged young people to view agribusiness as a modern, profitable career path. This approach supports Nigeria’s broader efforts to reduce youth unemployment while curbing rural-to-urban migration.
Throughout the clinic, collaboration remained a strong theme. Participants interacted with technical experts, extension officers, and value-chain actors, creating opportunities for knowledge exchange and peer learning. These interactions strengthened local innovation ecosystems and encouraged partnerships beyond the training period.
Government officials highlighted the importance of such initiatives in achieving food security and economic diversification. They noted that empowering women and youths strengthens community resilience while contributing to national development goals. Consequently, partnerships with international organisations like IFAD remain central to Nigeria’s agricultural transformation agenda.
From IFAD’s perspective, the Innovation Clinic model demonstrates how global development frameworks can succeed when adapted to local realities. By grounding innovation in community needs, the programme supports long-term sustainability rather than short-term gains.
Participants described the training as practical and impactful. Many noted immediate improvements in their understanding of agribusiness planning, product quality, and market engagement. Several beneficiaries expressed optimism about applying their new skills to expand production and increase income.
Looking ahead, the Federal Government and IFAD plan to replicate similar Innovation Clinics in other regions of Nigeria. Through expanded reach and continued collaboration, the Value Chain Development Programme aims to strengthen rural economies, promote inclusive growth, and reinforce Nigeria’s role within Africa’s evolving agricultural landscape.
Overall, the Taraba Innovation Clinic highlights how targeted capacity building, international cooperation, and locally driven innovation can unlock the potential of women and youths while supporting sustainable development goals on a broader global scale.
