Agric Road and Electrification Projects Consume N18bn – Report

A recent report has disclosed that ₦18 billion has been expended on agricultural road and rural electrification projects across Nigeria. The investment, which is part of broader efforts to improve rural infrastructure, aims to boost agricultural productivity, enhance access to markets, and improve the quality of life in underserved communities.

The projects include the construction and rehabilitation of farm access roads as well as the installation of electrification systems in rural areas. These initiatives are expected to address long-standing challenges such as poor road connectivity, which often leads to high post-harvest losses, and the lack of electricity, which limits economic activities and social development in rural regions.

According to the report, a significant portion of the funds was allocated to constructing all-weather roads in key agricultural zones. These roads are designed to facilitate the movement of farm produce from rural areas to urban markets, reducing transportation costs and improving farmers’ earnings. Additionally, the electrification projects aim to power agro-processing facilities and provide communities with reliable energy for domestic and commercial use.

Government officials emphasized the strategic importance of these projects, noting that improved infrastructure is critical to unlocking the potential of Nigeria’s agricultural sector and achieving food security. “Investing in rural infrastructure is not just about improving livelihoods; it’s about creating a foundation for sustainable economic growth,” one official stated.

Despite the progress made, stakeholders have raised concerns about the need for transparency in project implementation and the sustainability of the investments. Experts have called for regular monitoring and maintenance of the infrastructure to ensure long-term benefits for rural communities.

Farmers and local residents have welcomed the development, expressing optimism about the positive impact of improved roads and electricity on their productivity and living standards. However, many have urged the government to expand such projects to other underserved areas, citing the vast infrastructure gaps that still exist across the country.

As Nigeria continues to prioritize rural development, the ₦18 billion investment underscores the government’s commitment to addressing key barriers in the agricultural value chain. These projects are expected to contribute significantly to economic diversification and rural empowerment, further solidifying agriculture as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s economy.