The BATN Foundation has awarded a total of N25.5 million in grants to 17 young agripreneurs as part of efforts to support youth-led businesses in Nigeria’s agricultural sector.
The beneficiaries, selected under the Foundation’s 2026 Graduate Agripreneur Programme (GAP), each received N1.5 million in equity-free funding to help grow their agricultural ventures. The programme is designed to encourage young Nigerians to see agriculture as a viable business opportunity rather than just a traditional occupation.
Supporting the Next Generation of Farmers
According to the BATN Foundation, the beneficiaries emerged from competitive business pitch events held at the University of Ilorin, the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, and the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike.
The winning projects span different areas of agriculture, including poultry production, livestock farming, agro-processing, precision farming, agritech solutions, and beekeeping.
More Than Just Financial Support
Beyond the cash grants, the programme also provides mentorship and technical support aimed at helping participants turn their ideas into sustainable businesses.
Speaking on the initiative, BATN Foundation General Manager, Oludare Odusanya, said young people remain critical to the future of agriculture in Nigeria and that supporting their ideas is essential for food security and economic growth.
Boosting Food Security and Job Creation
Agriculture remains one of Nigeria’s largest employers, and experts believe greater investment in young agripreneurs can help improve food production, create jobs, and strengthen rural economies.
The Foundation said the programme reflects its commitment to empowering young Nigerians with the resources needed to build successful agribusinesses while contributing to the country’s agricultural development.
Looking Ahead
As concerns about food security continue to grow, initiatives such as the Graduate Agripreneur Programme are increasingly seen as important tools for encouraging innovation and attracting more young people into agriculture.
For the 17 beneficiaries, the grants represent not just financial support, but an opportunity to transform business ideas into ventures that can create value, employment, and long-term impact.