Nigeria and World Bank Partner to Boost Rural Roads and Agriculture with $600 Million Fund

In a significant step toward enhancing food production and transportation, the Federal Government of Nigeria, in partnership with the World Bank, has announced a $600 million initiative for the next phase of the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP). This project is set to expand rural road networks and improve market access through the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP).

This fund is a combination of a $500 million donation from the World Bank and $100 million from Nigerian federal and state governments. With this fund, farmers are closer to opportunities that were previously out of reach. With over 70% of Nigerians living in rural areas and agriculture serving as their primary economic activity, this project promises to transform rural communities while addressing broader issues of food security and poverty.

Connecting Farmers to Markets: A Lifeline for Rural Economies

Farmers in Nigeria often face significant challenges transporting their produce to market, with poor roads cutting them off from profitable opportunities. Abdullahi, a government spokesperson, emphasized the urgency of addressing this issue. “The lack of functional rural roads limits farmers’ ability to market their produce and sustain their livelihoods,” he said.

By constructing and upgrading rural roads, RAAMP aims to unlock the full potential of agriculture. Improved connectivity will enable farmers to access larger markets, reduce post-harvest losses, and boost incomes. The project also aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s agenda to ensure food security, reduce poverty, and create jobs for millions of Nigerians.

Currently operational in 19 states, RAAMP has already shown promising results, spurring other states to seek onboarding. “This federal component allows us to intervene in areas of agricultural production that states often overlook due to funding constraints,” Abdullahi added.

Paving the Way for Sustainability and Food Security

While the project’s immediate focus is on infrastructure, sustainability remains at its core. The National Coordinator for RAAMP, Aminu Mohammed, stressed that the project isn’t just about roads; it’s about fostering a thriving agricultural ecosystem.

“This initiative is about creating a lifeline for rural communities. By improving rural roads and market access, we’re ensuring farmers can sustain their livelihoods and contribute to Nigeria’s food security,” Mohammed said.

As Africa’s largest economy, Nigeria’s success in transforming its agricultural sector could serve as a blueprint for other nations on the continent. With the $600 million investment, RAAMP is a step toward empowering rural communities, strengthening food systems, and reducing poverty across Nigeria