In a world grappling with climate change and food insecurity, the ThriveAgric-AGRA initiative emerges as a beacon of hope for smallholder farmers in Nigeria. Through innovative approaches and strategic partnerships, this program is transforming agriculture in Niger State, ensuring farmers are equipped to face today’s challenges while building a sustainable future.

Addressing Urgent Challenges in Agriculture

Nigeria’s agricultural sector, the backbone of its economy, is under tremendous pressure from a rapidly growing population, climate change, and inefficient farming methods. Smallholder farmers, responsible for 80% of the nation’s food production, face staggering losses—up to 60% in crops like rice—due to poor management practices. These inefficiencies not only threaten food security but also contribute to environmental degradation and economic vulnerabilities.

Recognizing the urgency of these challenges, Thrive Agric, in partnership with AGRA (Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa), launched the "Strengthening Farmers' Resilience through Climate-Smart Grain Production and Accessing Structured Markets in Nigeria" initiative. This program focuses on empowering farmers through education, technology, and access to markets, creating a model of sustainable agricultural development directly advancing SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDG 13 (Climate Action). It was not just about growing crops—it’s about growing futures.

Innovative Solutions at Work

One of the core strengths of this initiative lies in its innovative solutions. Leveraging Thrive Agric’s proprietary Agriculture Operating System (AOS) app, the project has successfully onboarded 3,553 farmers, providing them with real-time data synchronization and tailored agricultural advice. This digital-first approach ensures efficient engagement and empowers farmers to make informed decisions  in alignment with SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure).

Agroforestry practices are another groundbreaking component. By integrating tree planting into farming systems, the project enhances soil fertility, promotes carbon sequestration, and provides farmers with additional income through potential carbon credits. These practices reflect the program’s commitment to environmental sustainability while boosting farmer incomes. These efforts directly contribute to SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 15 (Life on Land).

Strategic partnerships further amplify the initiative’s impact. Collaborations with government bodies, NGOs, and private sector actors ensure a holistic approach to agricultural development. From providing climate-smart inputs to facilitating market access through off-takers like One Acre Fund and Vorian Corelli these partnerships create a robust support system for farmers. Farmers were no longer at the mercy of middlemen. They had found their voice in the marketplace, and it was strong.

Celebrating Achievements

The October-December 2024 period marked remarkable progress for the initiative. The training and empowerment of 20 Community-Based Advisors (CBAs) have significantly enhanced knowledge transfer and local engagement. Additionally, over 3,550 farmers received training in post-harvest handling (177% of the project target) leading to tangible improvements in post harvest handling and sustainability. 

Figures 3 and 4 below represents the Cross section of Training of CBAs during the Training of Trainers program and post-harvest step down training for farmers.

The project’s grain aggregation efforts stand out as a key success. With 3,450 metric tons of grains collected across Paikoro, Bosso, and Chanchaga LGAs, the initiative achieved 95.8% of its quarterly target (Figure4). This milestone highlights the importance of structured market access in reducing post-harvest losses and ensuring fair pricing for small holder farmers. This milestone wasn’t just about numbers; it was about food on tables, fair prices for hard work, and the promise of stability.

Inclusivity remains a cornerstone of the program. With about 46% women beneficiaries, 55% Youth Inclusion and a further Five women’s groups (86 female members) being trained in value addition techniques, opening new economic opportunities and enhancing their roles in agricultural value chains. The program is addressing gender gaps in agricultural practices in alignment with SDG 5 (Gender Equality).  Furthermore, 20 young individuals have gained employment as community-based Advisors, fostering youth engagement and economic diversification in alignment with SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth).

Figures 6 and 7 below show the grain aggregation process and quality standards

The Road Ahead

Building on these achievements, the Thrive Agric-AGRA initiative is set to expand its impact. Plans include onboarding 2,000 more farmers, scaling agroforestry participation to 300 farmers, and conducting capacity-building sessions for 4,000 farmers on climate-smart agricultural practices. Strengthened partnerships with agro-dealers and off-takers will further enhance market access, creating a resilient agricultural ecosystem.

A Vision for Sustainable Agriculture

The ThriveAgric-AGRA initiative is more than a response to current agricultural challenges; it is a forward-looking strategy that integrates economic, social, and environmental dimensions to build resilience and prosperity. By empowering farmers with the tools, knowledge, and support they need, this program is laying the groundwork for a thriving agricultural sector in Nigeria.

As the initiative continues to grow, it offers a replicable model for other regions facing similar challenges. Through innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to sustainability. Through its commitment to the SDGs and transformative change, ThriveAgric is paving the way for a future where smallholder farmers not only survive but thrive—building prosperity for themselves, their communities, and the planet.

….the fields are thriving, and so are we. Here’s to an even greener, more fruitful next quarter!