A recent report highlighted that a substantial amount of N17.98 billion was allocated in 2024 for agricultural access road projects and electricity installations. The funding, administered by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, targeted enhancing rural infrastructure and agricultural productivity through investments in road construction and solar street light installations.
The majority of the funds were directed towards emergency road construction projects in Kano State, with notable payments made to various contractors for different road projects. Solar streetlight installation projects also received significant funding in different states, such as Kebbi and Kano. Kano State emerged as the primary beneficiary of these initiatives, with multiple projects completed across various local government areas.
While Kano State received a significant share of the funding, other states like Edo and Kwara also benefited from road reconstruction and streetlight installation projects. Additionally, in collaboration with the World Bank, the Federal Government allocated $600 million to rehabilitate rural roads under the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project. The Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security emphasized the importance of improving rural roads to stimulate economic activities in rural areas.
Looking ahead, the government has proposed substantial allocations in the 2025 Appropriation Bill for the installation of solar-powered streetlights, construction of feeder roads, and electrification of agro and rural industrial communities across different geopolitical zones. These efforts underscore the government’s commitment to addressing rural development challenges and promoting agricultural trade and rural livelihoods.