NNPC Foundation Extends Farmers’ Empowerment Programme to Northern Nigeria

The NNPC Foundation, the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) arm of NNPC Ltd., has launched the second phase of its Vulnerable Farmers Training Programme in Northern Nigeria, as part of its broader commitment to strengthening food security, driving economic empowerment, and promoting sustainable national development.

The initiative, which recorded remarkable success in its first phase across the South-East, South-South, and South-West regions, equipped over 4,000 farmers with modern agricultural techniques and market-access strategies. Building on this achievement, the programme has now been extended to the North East, North West, and North Central geopolitical zones, with training sessions scheduled across six states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.

The training modules focus on climate-smart agriculture, organic fertilization, post-harvest loss reduction, and market access strategies—tools designed to help farmers transition from subsistence practices to more sustainable and commercial-scale farming.

Speaking at the flag-off of the initiative in Nsukka, Enugu State, the Managing Director of NNPC Foundation, Mrs. Emmanuella Arukwe, underscored the alignment of the programme with the Federal Government’s agricultural transformation agenda.

“At NNPC Ltd, we recognize that agriculture remains the primary source of livelihood for over 70% of Nigeria’s population. Yet, many farmers remain trapped in subsistence-level production due to limited access to modern techniques, quality inputs, and competitive markets. This training is designed to change that narrative,” Arukwe said.

She added that the Foundation’s long-term vision is to equip smallholder farmers with the skills, resources, and opportunities needed to improve productivity, enhance resilience to climate challenges, and secure better livelihoods.

With this expansion into Northern Nigeria, the NNPC Foundation is positioning itself as a critical partner in tackling food insecurity, strengthening rural economies, and supporting national growth through agriculture.