More than 11.5 million rural Nigerians have benefited from RAAMP improved access, according to the Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Aliyu Abdullahi. He said the gains reflect expanded rural connectivity under the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project. The minister made the disclosure during a national implementation support mission on RAAMP in Abuja. He linked the progress to improved movement of goods, services, and people across rural communities.
The Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project, known as RAAMP, is a federal initiative supported by the World Bank and development partners. It focuses on improving rural roads and linking farming communities to markets.
The programme is part of wider efforts to strengthen agricultural productivity and reduce transport challenges in rural areas. It also supports state-level infrastructure agencies and road funds designed to maintain rural networks. Government officials have consistently described RAAMP improved access as central to improving food systems and rural livelihoods across participating states.
Minister Aliyu Abdullahi said RAAMP has delivered measurable improvements in rural connectivity. He stated that over 11.5 million Nigerians now benefit directly from RAAMP improved access to roads and markets.
He added that about 1,500 kilometres of rural roads have been completed under the programme. He also noted that an additional 2,500 kilometres are targeted for delivery within the current implementation cycle.
The minister described connectivity as essential for economic activity in rural areas. He said without access to markets, agricultural production cannot translate into improved incomes. He stated: “Connectivity is food security because without access to markets, production cannot translate into prosperity.”
Officials also noted that states participating in RAAMP are at different stages of implementation. However, they said overall coordination has improved delivery of rural infrastructure projects nationwide.
The expansion of RAAMP improved access is expected to strengthen rural economies by reducing transport costs and post-harvest losses. Improved road connectivity can also enhance access to healthcare, education, and markets in remote areas.
The programme aligns with federal agricultural priorities focused on food security and value chain development. It also supports broader infrastructure reforms aimed at sustaining rural road networks beyond project funding cycles. Experts and development partners have consistently linked rural infrastructure to productivity growth in agriculture and trade expansion.
