In a transformative move to improve rural infrastructure, the Federal Government of Nigeria, in partnership with the World Bank, has allocated $600 million to rehabilitate 200,000 kilometers of rural roads under the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP).
This ambitious initiative is aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity and reducing poverty across rural communities.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja, Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Aliyu Abdullahi, disclosed that the World Bank is contributing $500 million, while the federal and state governments will provide $100 million as counterpart funding.
The RAAMP initiative, operational in 19 states, is set to address a critical challenge: the deplorable state of rural roads in Nigeria.
Abdullahi revealed that 80% of the country’s rural roads are currently impassable, severely hindering economic activities and the movement of agricultural produce.
“This initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s agenda on food security, inclusivity, poverty eradication, and job creation.
Most of Nigeria’s population resides in rural areas, where agriculture constitutes over 70% of their economic activities.
However, the lack of functional rural roads has significantly limited their ability to market their produce and sustain their livelihoods,” Abdullahi stated.
The RAAMP project has already demonstrated significant success, prompting calls from nearly all states in the federation to be included in the program.
“This is a strong collaboration with the World Bank. Based on the project’s achievements so far, many states are seeking onboarding to benefit from the massive successes delivered.
As part of the review, all parties have agreed on the need to include sustainability measures moving forward,” Abdullahi added.
The National Coordinator of RAAMP, Aminu Mohammed, emphasized the initiative’s primary goal: improving rural road networks to enhance agricultural marketing.
By creating better infrastructure, the project aims to link farmers to markets, reduce post-harvest losses, and support economic growth in underserved areas.
With most rural roads in dire condition, the project is expected to revolutionize Nigeria’s agricultural landscape, enabling farmers to access markets and increasing the flow of goods and services. It also holds the promise of boosting job creation and fostering sustainable rural development.
The $600 million investment underscores the Federal Government’s commitment to prioritizing rural development, paving the way for economic empowerment and food security for millions of Nigerians.