The Seed Entrepreneurs Association of Nigeria (SEEDAN) has expressed its commendation for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's approval for the disbursement of a N50 billion Seed Industry Catalytic Fund. The association described this significant financial intervention as a major boost for Nigeria's food security and the broader development of agribusiness.
A Major Boost for Agriculture and Food Security
In a statement released on 22 December 2025 and signed by its President, Alhaji Yusuf-Ado Kibiya, SEEDAN highlighted that the fund is domiciled with the Bank of Industry (BoI). Its implementation aligns with the federal government's Renewed Hope Agenda, reflecting a strong commitment to fortifying the nation's seed sector and stimulating crucial private sector investment.
The association 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. SEEDAN acknowledged the instrumental advocacy of the Director-General and management of the National Agricultural Seeds Council (NASC), crediting them for their part in realizing this fund. Appreciation was also given to the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security for prioritizing the development of Nigeria's seed ecosystem.
Call to Action and Strategic Milestones
SEEDAN has urged seed companies across Nigeria to seize the opportunity presented by the catalytic fund. The association encourages investments in critical areas such as seed infrastructure, production, packaging, and marketing. This, they assert, is vital to ensuring the nationwide availability of high-quality, improved seeds for farmers.
Effective utilisation of this facility is expected to accelerate industry growth, enhance competitiveness, and support the transformation of Nigeria's agricultural landscape, the statement noted.
The association also took the opportunity to highlight several key milestones achieved over the past year. These include the successful completion of an institutional merger that has harmonised operations within the private seed sector and strengthened SEEDAN's own governance and advocacy capacity.
International Recognition and Future Plans
A significant development announced was SEEDAN's attainment of Ordinary Status Membership in the International Seed Federation (ISF). This membership is poised to enhance Nigeria's integration into the global seed community, opening doors for international collaboration and knowledge exchange.
Furthermore, with support from the African Seed Trade Association (AFSTA), SEEDAN has established a Biotechnology Committee. This committee aims to deepen engagement and advocacy while promoting the responsible use of modern biotechnology tools to improve crop resilience and productivity.
In a move to strategically guide its future, SEEDAN, with support from the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA) and Sahel Consulting Limited, has developed a comprehensive five-year strategic plan. This plan 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.
