British American Tobacco Nigeria Foundation and NYSC Renew Youth Empowerment Partnership to Boost Agribusiness Skills

Abuja, Nigeria — January 28, 2026 — In a strong reaffirmation of its commitment to youth empowerment and sustainable agribusiness development, the British American Tobacco Nigeria Foundation (BATNF) has renewed its strategic partnership with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). The collaboration seeks to expand opportunities for young Nigerians to build resilient agricultural enterprises as part of the widely applauded “Farmers for the Future” initiative.

The new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), signed on January 22, extends a programme first launched in 2019, under which corps members receive funds, mentorship, and skills training to grow innovative agricultural ventures across Nigeria. The partnership aims to stimulate rural economies, enhance food security, and foster entrepreneurship among Nigeria’s youth.

Representing BATNF at the signing in Abuja were Oludare Odusanya and Project Manager Adetola Oniyelu, who reaffirmed the Foundation’s dedication to investing in human capital and agribusiness growth. The NYSC Programme Director lauded the collaboration as a transformative platform for young people seeking to turn agricultural passion into profitable, sustainable businesses.

How the Partnership Moves Nigeria Forward

This renewed collaboration underscores several positive national development themes:

Youth Skills & Job Creation

By equipping young Nigerians with practical agribusiness skills, BATNF and NYSC are helping reduce unemployment and stimulate inclusive growth in rural communities — an important priority in Nigeria’s economic agenda.

Agricultural Innovation

The focus on sustainable agribusiness empowers emerging agripreneurs to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s food systems and value chains, supporting food security and market competitiveness.

Public‑Private Collaboration

Long‑term partnerships between the private sector and public institutions like NYSC showcase how corporate social investment can amplify national policy goals, particularly in youth development and economic diversification.