Teva Foods has commissioned its Jos-1 Greenhouse Farm Estate in Rayfield, Plateau State, with a strong emphasis on youth empowerment, ethical farming, and climate-resilient agriculture.
The initiative, described as a response to Nigeria’s growing food insecurity, youth unemployment, and the threats of climate change, seeks to reposition agriculture in the hands of innovative young minds.
The facility houses over 12,000 bell pepper plants and serves as a hub for precision farming and hands-on training in smart agricultural practices.
CEO of Teva Foods, Chima Christian, said the company was born out of frustration with the prevalence of genetically modified and inorganic foods in the market, noting that the initiative is both a production and a mentorship ecosystem.
“We want to reposition agriculture beyond the hands of the elderly—old fathers and mothers doing subsistence farming without energy or innovation. Our goal is to empower young people,” he said.
“We’re designing agricultural projects for primary and secondary schools to raise future agri-preneurs. You don’t need a greenhouse to startbegin from your backyard or balcony. That’s the heart of our vision: building a new generation of smart, ethical farmers.”
The project also prioritizes climate-smart practices, using controlled greenhouse technology to deliver water and nutrients precisely to each plant, minimizing waste and maximizing yield in a weather-insulated environment.
Climate advocate and consultant to the project, Desmond Chollom, described the initiative as a timely adaptation strategy for Plateau State and Nigeria at large.
“We’re being faced with an existential threat of climate change, and we must adapt. Smart farming is the engine now, and the government must create an enabling environment for our youth to engage meaningfully in it,” he stated.
As part of the broader mission, Teva Foods has incorporated internship and mentorship programs to build the capacity of youth across the region.
One of the interns, Mercy Chineke, expressed optimism about the opportunities the project offers.
“I’ve always loved anything organic. This project is a great opportunity to grow my own skills and pass them on to others. Agriculture, especially smart farming, is the future, and we need to take it seriously,” she said.
The project reflects an emerging model where private sector innovation aligns with national and subnational development agendas, particularly in agriculture, education, and environmental sustainability.
