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The Federal Government of Nigeria has called for the adoption of blended finance models to bridge the country’s estimated N3.4 trillion agricultural financing gap, as part of efforts to boost productivity, improve yields, and strengthen food security. Speaking at the Vanguard Economic Discourse held in Lagos, the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Maiha, emphasised that food security should be treated not only as an agricultural concern but as a critical pillar of national security and socio-economic stability. Represented by his Special Adviser, Prof. Eustace Iyayi, the minister noted that the livestock sector contributes between 5% and 8% to Nigeria’s GDP and accounts for nearly one-third of the country’s agricultural GDP. Beyond its economic value, he highlighted the sector’s importance in addressing nutrition challenges, particularly protein deficiency. Maiha identified access to affordable finance as one of the most significant constraints facing both crop and livestock ...