FG Backs ₦70bn National Farm Cities Initiative to Empower 35 Million Nigerians with Disabilities
Humanitarian Affairs Minister says project aligns with Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, promises support after review of implementation framework
By Pan Afric Reporters
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to the full operationalisation of the proposed National Farm Cities Project, a landmark initiative designed to empower persons with disabilities through inclusive agricultural development, economic participation and poverty reduction across Nigeria.
The commitment was made by the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Bernard M. Doro, during a courtesy visit by the Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), Mr. Ayuba Burki, alongside officials of the Commission and representatives of the Peace for Humanity Foundation, at the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja.
The development was disclosed in a press statement issued by the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction and signed by Janet McDickson Noah, Director of Information and Public Relations, on July 30, 2026.
During the meeting, Dr. Doro received a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the NCPWD and the Peace for Humanity Foundation aimed at facilitating the implementation of the National Farm Cities Project.
The Minister assured the delegation of the Ministry’s support for the initiative, noting that the proposal would undergo careful review to ensure its successful implementation in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“The document has to be studied and reviewed for easy and successful implementation of the project as aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President,” Dr. Doro said.
He explained that the project is intended to serve as a national model for disability inclusion and sustainable development, ensuring that no Nigerian is left behind while advancing the government’s poverty reduction objectives.
Earlier, the Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities, Mr. Ayuba Burki, said the delegation visited the Minister to formally present the MoU and brief him on the objectives and expected impact of the proposed National Farm Cities Project.
According to Burki, the project is estimated to cost ₦70 billion and is expected to be funded through multiple sources, including government budgetary allocations, development partners, the private sector, internally generated revenue (IGR) of the Commission and other financing mechanisms.
He disclosed that Nigeria has more than 35 million persons with disabilities, many of whom—particularly women and children—face severe unemployment, poverty and social exclusion.
“Nigeria has over 35 million persons with disabilities, many of whom are women and children facing extreme unemployment and poverty,” Burki stated.
He explained that the National Farm Cities Project is designed to provide sustainable livelihoods and economic opportunities for persons with disabilities through agriculture and related value chains.
Burki further revealed that the project is proposed to be implemented across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to ensure equitable access and nationwide impact.
The initiative, according to the Commission, is expected to promote inclusive development, expand economic opportunities for vulnerable populations and complement the Federal Government’s efforts to reduce poverty while advancing disability inclusion across the country.
