The Federal Government and the Agricultural Farmers and Traders Development Association of Nigeria (AFTDAN) are collaborating to strengthen the agricultural value chain, enhance market access, and promote sustainable farming practices.
Speaking at the inauguration of AFTDAN’s Board of Trustees and members on Wednesday in Abuja, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Sen. George Akume, described the association’s establishment as a positive step.
Represented by Alhaji Wada Nas, Akume emphasised the critical role of farmers and traders in ensuring food security, economic stability, and job creation.
He noted that the government remained committed to supporting initiatives like AFTDAN and would continue to partner with organisations working to uplift farmers and traders nationwide.
Gov. Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq of Kwara State and Chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF), represented by Dr Akanbi Olubunmi, lauded the association, saying its formation marked a new chapter in the revitalisation of Nigeria’s agricultural sector.
“Nigeria’s agriculture sector feeds our nation, sustains our economy, and holds the key to our future prosperity,” he stated.
Mr Elijah Nze, National President of AFTDAN, said the association was a non-governmental organisation dedicated to agricultural development and improving farmers’ livelihoods.
He explained that AFTDAN was formed to collaborate with the government and stakeholders to eliminate hunger and restore the dignity of Nigerian farmers through impactful programmes.
Nze highlighted several challenges affecting agriculture in the country, including seasonal farming, land degradation, low irrigation levels, lack of mechanisation, limited market access, insufficient agricultural education and extension services, and pest and disease outbreaks.
He assured that AFTDAN was ready to deploy its human resources and utilise available support to contribute to national food security.
Also speaking, His Royal Majesty, the Ona of Abaji, Dr Adamu Yunusa, represented by Alhaji Umar Faruk, Magayaki of Abaji, stressed the importance of embracing rural agriculture.
He described agriculture as the most beneficial and dependable form of employment for the nation’s development.