Shettima launches $500m Niger Delta agric fund

Vice President Kashim Shettima launched the $500 million Nigeria — Niger Delta Agricultural Investment Fund at the Nigeria — Niger Delta Agricultural Development and Investment Summit in Abuja on July 15, 2026. The fund is a commercial, returns-driven vehicle covering aquaculture, palm oil, cassava, cocoa, rice, horticulture, marine resources, and livestock. It coordinates commitments from the World Bank Group, African Development Bank, Islamic Development Bank, European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, and private financiers. Shettima also inaugurated the Nigeria — Niger Delta Agricultural Development and Investment Council, which he chairs, with the NDDC as secretariat. The initiative aims to boost food security, reduce oil dependence, and transform the Nigeria — Niger Delta into an agricultural hub. President Bola Tinubu's administration has prioritized food security since 2023, declaring a state of emergency and launching mechanization programs. The summit was attended by governors of the nine Nigeria — Niger Delta states, development partners, and stakeholders.