The British American Tobacco Nigeria Foundation (BATNF) has awarded N10 million to six young agripreneurs under its Farmers for the Future (F4F) Cohort 5.0 programme. This initiative aims to empower young Nigerians with tools and resources to transform the agricultural sector. The grand prize of N3 million in equity-free capital was won by Tolu Ajibola, CEO of Tolu Ajibola Farms, who described the recognition as validation for her sustainable farming ambitions.
First runners-up, Chinaza Mbah, founder of Nana’s Delight Foodstuff, and Aishat Albashir, CEO of A&A Green Farms, each received N2 million to advance their businesses. They credited the F4F programme with providing critical mentorship and resources to drive innovation and expand their ventures. Second runners-up, Kanadi Usman, Abubakar Yakubu, and Emediong Effiong, were awarded N1 million each to support their agribusiness initiatives.
BATNF Project Manager Adetola Oniyelu highlighted the programme as a strategic investment in both individuals and Nigeria’s agricultural sector. He emphasized the foundation’s commitment to empowering agripreneurs who are pioneering sustainable practices and creating jobs, despite challenges such as limited research, mechanized tools, and access to financial grants.
The winners also gained access to the exclusive F4F alumni network, which offers mentorship, industry collaborations, and peer support. BATNF underscored the programme’s role in fostering entrepreneurial spirit among young Nigerians, with projects ranging from aquaculture to tech-driven farming solutions.
With its 2024 F4F Cohort 5.0, BATNF reaffirms its dedication to tackling food security and unemployment through innovative youth programmes. This initiative not only empowers agripreneurs but also advances the agricultural value chain, positioning Nigeria’s youth as key drivers of sustainable growth in the sector.
