The Seed Entrepreneurs Association of Nigeria (SEEDAN) has expressed strong commendation for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu following his approval for the disbursement of a N50 billion Seed Industry Catalytic Fund. The association described this substantial financial intervention as a pivotal move that will significantly enhance national food security and propel agribusiness development across the country.
A Major Boost for Agriculture and Food Security
In a formal statement released by its President, Alhaji Yusuf-Ado Kibiya, SEEDAN highlighted that the fund is domiciled with the Bank of Industry (BoI) and will be implemented in alignment with the Federal Government's Renewed Hope Agenda. The association views this initiative as a clear demonstration of the government's dedication to fortifying Nigeria's seed sector and catalyzing crucial private sector investments.
SEEDAN also extended praise to Vice President Kashim Shettima for his role in launching the distribution of Renewed Hope Seeds to smallholder farmers during the recent SeedConnect Africa Conference. The association acknowledged the instrumental advocacy efforts of the Director-General and management team of the National Agricultural Seeds Council (NASC), crediting them for their part in realizing the fund. Gratitude was also expressed towards the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security for consistently prioritizing the development of a robust seed ecosystem in Nigeria.
Call to Action and Strategic Milestones
The association issued a direct call to seed companies nationwide, urging them to leverage the catalytic fund fully. SEEDAN emphasized that investments should be channeled into critical areas such as seed infrastructure, production capabilities, packaging, and marketing. The ultimate goal is to ensure the widespread availability of high-quality, improved seeds to farmers in every region. According to SEEDAN, the effective utilization of this facility will accelerate industry growth, enhance competitiveness, and fundamentally transform Nigeria's agricultural landscape.
Beyond the new fund, SEEDAN outlined several significant achievements over the past year. A key milestone was the successful completion of an institutional merger, which has harmonized operations within the private seed sector and substantially strengthened the association's governance and advocacy capacity.
Global Integration and Future Plans
In a landmark development, SEEDAN announced its attainment of Ordinary Status Membership in the International Seed Federation (ISF). This membership is expected to foster Nigeria's deeper integration into the global seed community, opening new doors for international collaboration and the exchange of vital knowledge.
Looking forward, the association disclosed the formation of a Biotechnology Committee, supported by the African Seed Trade Association (AFSTA). This committee is tasked with deepening engagement and advocacy while promoting the responsible use of modern biotechnology tools to improve crop resilience and productivity.
Furthermore, with support from the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA) and Sahel Consulting Limited, SEEDAN has developed a comprehensive five-year strategic plan. This blueprint is designed to drive innovation, expand private-sector participation, and strengthen the entire seed value chain.
"As the umbrella body for responsible seed businesses in Nigeria, SEEDAN remains committed to promoting the production, distribution, and adoption of quality improved seed varieties that meet the needs of farmers and support Nigeria’s food and nutrition security goals," the association affirmed.
