The Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development has finalized an agreement with the Bank of Agriculture to launch the Women Agro-Value Expansion (WAVE) Programme. This initiative aims to assist three million women by providing necessary resources, financial backing, and access to mechanised farming tools.
Minister Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim stated that the project supports President Bola Tinubu’s goal of strengthening food security and economic independence for women. She noted that while women are central to the agricultural sector, they often struggle to expand their operations due to a lack of capital. Through WAVE, the government intends to help these farmers transition from small-scale production to professional agribusiness.
The program offers various forms of support, including education, digital tools, and improved agricultural inputs. According to the Minister, over 33,000 women have already expressed interest in the scheme. Bank of Agriculture Managing Director, Ayo Sotinrin, highlighted that the bank would offer subsidised interest rates on seeds and equipment. Specifically, women will have the opportunity to acquire tractors under a repayment plan lasting three to five years.
Permanent Secretary Esuabana Nko Asanye emphasised that the partnership is designed to shift women from subsistence farming toward commercial enterprise. By providing access to modern technology and professional networks, the government hopes to increase individual incomes and boost the nation’s total food output.
