FG Allocates ₦785 Million to Barbers and Hairdressers in 2025 Agricultural Budget

In a surprising twist, the Nigerian Federal Government, through the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, has allocated ₦785 million in the 2025 agriculture budget to support barbers and hairdressers under an SME development component. The budget line, titled “Hair Before Hunger,” aims to foster small-business growth and diversify rural and urban economies.

The allocation seeks to integrate vocational trades like barbering and hairstyling into agricultural community development frameworks. FG officials argue that these trades play an essential role in community livelihoods and creating jobs, particularly where agriculture alone may not sustain families . The investment is expected to provide training, equipment, and micro-loans to practitioners across several states.

The policy reflects a broader rethinking of the agricultural budget’s scope—shifting from crop cultivation alone to include allied sectors and informal service providers. Proponents say expanding agricultural value chains to include local services like hair care can reduce rural-urban migration and strengthen resilience . Critics, however, question whether this aligns with the traditional role of agriculture and warn against diluting limited funds.

Moving forward, the implementation will be key. Effective delivery depends on clear criteria for recipient selection, transparent disbursement, and measurable outcomes in business growth and employment. Observers will be watching closely to see if such cross-sector allocations genuinely boost livelihoods—or risk undermining targeted agricultural investments.

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