Applications have opened for the Face of Agriculture (FOA) 2026 Programme, a national initiative aimed at empowering Nigeria’s next generation of farmers, agripreneurs and agricultural innovators through training, mentorship, networking and funding opportunities.

Organised by Agric Naija Foods and Farms Limited, the programme seeks to identify and develop outstanding young leaders driving innovation across Nigeria’s agricultural value chain.

Under the 2026 edition, participants will compete for a ₦50 million cash prize pool, with the overall winner receiving ₦30 million to support community-based or agricultural development projects.

Empowering Nigeria’s Future Agricultural Leaders

The Face of Agriculture programme is designed to promote agriculture as a catalyst for food security, job creation, entrepreneurship and sustainable economic growth.

Beyond the financial awards, participants will receive practical support to strengthen their agribusiness ventures and leadership capacity while connecting with key stakeholders across Nigeria’s agricultural ecosystem.

The 2026 programme is themed:

“Growing Africa’s Future Through Innovation, Enterprise, and Leadership.”

Programme Benefits

Successful applicants will have access to a range of opportunities aimed at accelerating business growth and professional development, including:

• National recognition and media visibility
• Agribusiness and entrepreneurship training
• Leadership development programmes
• Mentorship from industry experts
• Access to funding opportunities
• Market access support
• Networking with investors and agricultural stakeholders
• Product exhibition and business pitch opportunities

Opportunities to serve as agricultural ambassadors

Who Can Apply?

Applications are open to young Nigerians actively involved in agriculture and agribusiness, including:

• Farmers
• Agripreneurs
• Agricultural innovators
• Food and agribusiness entrepreneurs
• Young agricultural leaders
• Individuals developing solutions that contribute to Nigeria’s agricultural sector

Applicants will undergo a competitive selection process, with shortlisted candidates progressing through multiple stages of the programme.

Programme Structure

The Face of Agriculture 2026 programme will include several phases designed to develop participants’ leadership and business capabilities:

• Application and nomination
• Public mobilisation and engagement
• National Agricultural Boot Camp
• Product exhibition and business pitch
• Grand finale
• Ambassadorial year for selected winners

The programme combines capacity building with business exposure, enabling participants to showcase their innovations while expanding their professional networks.

Supporting Youth-Led Agribusiness Development

Nigeria continues to prioritise youth participation in agriculture as part of broader efforts to strengthen food security, increase agricultural productivity and create employment opportunities.

Initiatives such as the Face of Agriculture programme are helping encourage more young people to pursue careers in agribusiness by providing mentorship, funding opportunities and greater visibility for innovative agricultural enterprises.

As Africa’s agricultural sector evolves through technology, climate-smart farming and value addition, programmes that nurture young entrepreneurs are expected to play an increasingly important role in building a competitive and resilient agricultural economy.