FCMB and Mastercard launched the digital platform AgroPass for farmers

A new platform has been developed by Mastercard to connect smallholder farmers with resource suppliers, buyers, lenders, and other participants in Nigeria's agricultural value chain. The project combines Mastercard's technological solutions with FCMB's well-established network across farming communities nationwide.

During the presentation in Lagos, Obaro Odehge, representing FCMB Managing Director Yemisi Edun, noted that supporting agricultural producers involves not only issuing loans, but also establishing connections with finance, markets, and technology. According to Yemisi Edun, last year the bank channeled over N364.6 billion ($236 million) into financing Nigeria's agricultural sector and supported over 196,000 smallholder farmers nationwide, with nearly half of the recipients being women and youth.

Agriculture accounts for over 20 percent of Nigeria's GDP and a significant share of employment, yet small-scale producers still face difficulties in obtaining financing and quality inputs. To address these challenges, FCMB uses a value chain financing model. Kudzai Gumunyuni, Head of Agribusiness and Non-Oil Export at the bank, stated that this work contributes to productivity growth, increased exports, and the emergence of economic opportunities in rural areas.

Mastercard Executive Vice President Tara Nathan emphasized that the platform is designed to overcome existing barriers and provide farmers with access to digital tools to enhance business resilience. The project aims to make agricultural transactions more transparent and efficient, contributing to the strengthening of food security and financial inclusion.