World Bank approves $500 million AGROW credit for Nigerian farmers

The World Bank approved a $500 million International Development Association credit for Nigeria's Sustainable Agricultural Value-Chains for Growth project, known as AGROW, to raise farm productivity and improve links between smallholders and commercial buyers.

Running from 2026 to 2032, the project is expected to reach as many as one million farmers and mobilise about $220 million from private agribusinesses. Priority value chains include rice, maize, cassava and soybeans.

From production to markets

AGROW combines improved and climate-resilient seed systems with extension services, a national digital farm registry, post-harvest handling and agro-processing. A results-based matching-grant facility will support businesses that commit to buying from organised producer groups.

The programme is meant to address a recurring weakness in agricultural intervention: higher output is of limited value if farmers cannot store produce, meet quality standards or reach buyers. Execution across participating states and the durability of private off-take arrangements will therefore be key tests.

Sources

World Bank, “Nigeria: World Bank Approves Project to Expand Agricultural Value Chains and Jobs” (30 March 2026); World Bank AGROW Project Appraisal Document, P510848.