This study was conducted in three states: Lagos, Kaduna and Kano. It utilized a qualitative design that comprised Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), In-Depth Interviews (IDIs), and Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) to understand the context of demand-related factors that characterized the determinants of utilization patterns for service uptake among small-scale farmers, extension officers, input suppliers amongst others. This data improved the understanding of socio-economic factors influencing agricultural practices.

The Policy Innovation Centre, in collaboration with the Lagos State Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation and Albright Stonebridge Group, is committed to empowering women in agriculture by addressing systemic barriers and promoting inclusive growth.

Guided by the National Women’s Economic Empowerment (WEE) Policy, we work to increase female participation in agriculture, realign financing schemes to support women and youth-owned agribusinesses, and ensure the inclusion of women across the agricultural value chain.

Our initiatives focus on implementing gender-responsive policies, such as revising land tenure systems, improving access to credit, and establishing equitable input distribution systems.

From 2023 to 2024, our research explored gender-based constraints in adopting CSA technologies in Nigeria. This study evaluated access to agricultural resources, adoption rates of CSA practices, and barriers such as financial limitations, market inaccessibility, and mobility restrictions. The research provided policy recommendations to enhance gender equity in agriculture, ensuring both men and women benefit from sustainable farming innovations.

This research, conducted in Edo State, examined the adoption of DFS among rural women farmers and the impact of financial inclusion on their economic stability. The study analyzed barriers such as limited access to banking services, gender norms, and digital literacy, while also identifying enablers that can drive DFS adoption. The findings are currently being used to develop targeted interventions that enhance financial access for smallholder farmers and strengthen agri-business development.