Ndanusa Usman Shehu, the Kwara State Commissioner for Youth Development, has reaffirmed the present administration’s commitment to digital innovation.
Speaking at a one-day workshop on “Sustainable Climate Finance for Investments in Small-Scale Agro-Enterprises.” the Commissioner delivered a lecture on the role of climate finance in driving rural development.
The workshop, organised under the EU-DIGISOL Project, convened policymakers, development partners, academics, and representatives of financial and agricultural institutions.
In his presentation, Ndanusa emphasized that climate change is no longer a distant threat but a daily reality affecting farmers particularly those in rural and remote communities. He noted that unpredictable rainfall patterns, declining soil quality, and rising production risks continue to undermine small-scale agro-enterprises, many of which are led by young people.
He said: “expanding climate-finance solutions in rural areas would significantly reduce rural-urban migration, as young people would be encouraged to remain in their communities when opportunities for economic growth and digital empowerment are readily available.”
He added that climate finance has become a lifeline for rural communities, serving not just as a financial tool but as a development mechanism that helps farmers adapt to challenges and build resilience.
Describing it as “a bridge between vulnerability and opportunity,” he stressed its importance for young farmers who form a significant part of Nigeria’s agricultural workforce.
Ndanusa also highlighted how digitalisation, championed by the EU-DIGISOL initiative, is unlocking new pathways for innovation. From digital climate-finance platforms to mobile-based insurance and weather advisory services, he said these tools are enabling young farmers to invest confidently, expand their enterprises, and embrace climate-smart agriculture.
Connecting the discussions to ongoing efforts of Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq’s administration, he commended the State Government for its deliberate investment in digital infrastructure. He cited the expansion of broadband access, establishment of the Ilorin Innovation Hub, and digital reforms across key sectors as major steps that have empowered youths and strengthened small-scale businesses.
“These investments are not just about technology; they are about giving our young people the tools they need to thrive in a changing world,” he said.
He further noted that climate finance aligns strongly with the administration’s agenda of youth empowerment, job creation, and rural development. With the right digital tools and improved financial access, he said young farmers can build sustainable agro-enterprises and contribute meaningfully to food security.
Earlier in his remarks, Tajudeen Ajala, the Coordinator of the DIGISOL-HUI Project, appreciated participants for honouring the invitation and explained that the initiative is designed to strengthen digital capacity among institutions and rural stakeholders.
He said the project focuses on helping farmers access climate-finance tools capable of improving productivity, enhancing resilience, and supporting sustainable agricultural growth.
Other dignitaries at the event included the Commissioner for Agriculture, Afees Abolore Alabi; the Senior Special Assistant on Communication, Ibraheem Abdullateef; top officials of the host institution; and representatives of civil-society organisations, cooperative societies, fintech innovators, and microfinance institutions.
