Nigeria and IFAD launch 13th supervision mission for agricultural programme

The Federal Government of Nigeria and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) have launched the 13th Joint Supervision Mission for the Value Chain Development Programme (VCDP). The mission, which runs from October 12 to November 6, 2026, aims to assess the programme’s implementation, financial performance, and preparedness for completion.

Stakeholders have noted the programme’s success in improving rice and cassava value chains across nine states. Key achievements include enhanced agricultural productivity, expanded processing and storage infrastructure, and improved market access for rural households. Dr. Emmanuel Oladipo Akogun, Director of the Federal Department of Development Partners Projects, stated that the programme has achieved over 98 per cent of its outreach target and serves as a model for rural transformation and economic diversification.

Despite these successes, challenges remain. Dr. Akogun identified issues such as delays in fund disbursement, procurement difficulties, gaps in counterpart funding, and financial management challenges. He emphasized the need for sustainable financing for infrastructure maintenance and stronger farmer organizations to consolidate the gains made as the programme approaches its conclusion.