The All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Ogun Chapter, has called for greater recognition and inclusion of farmers in government programmes.
The Chairperson of the association, Ganiyat Kusimo, made the call while speaking with newsmen on Thursday in Abeokuta.
Kusimo commended the administration of Gov. Dapo Abiodun for its efforts toward agricultural development, food security, community development and social intervention programmes.
She, however, expressed concern over what she described as inadequate involvement of farmers and their representative associations in some government programmes.
According to her, farmers ought to be actively involved in programmes relating to agriculture, food production, food security, community development and rural empowerment.
“Farmers are at the centre of the food system. Whenever government programmes involve food distribution, community health or food security, farmers should have a clear place,” she said.
She cited the commissioning and related activities involving projects chaired by Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, particularly those connected with food distribution, community health and community development.
She added that the recent launch of the National Community Food Bank Programme in Ogun by the First Lady was one of the programmes where farmers should be adequately represented.
Kusimo said such initiatives were closely connected with agriculture and food production, adding that farmers should not be treated merely as spectators.
She said greater involvement of farmers would help the government achieve more impact and ensure that interventions reached those directly involved in food production.
The AFAN chairperson also raised concerns over inadequate logistical arrangements for farmers attending official government programmes.
“Many farmers operate in rural communities and have limited resources to cover transportation and other expenses associated with attending official engagements.
“We are appealing to our governor to establish a coordinated mechanism for informing, representing and supporting recognised farmer associations during relevant government programmes,” she said.
She added that farmers should be regarded as strategic partners of government rather than simply beneficiaries of agricultural programmes.
According to her, farmers’ voices, experience and participation are essential to the success of the state’s food security agenda.
Kusimo reaffirmed AFAN’s commitment to working with the state government and stakeholders toward sustainable agriculture, food security and rural development.
She also advocated increased youth participation in agribusiness and improved livelihoods for farmers across the state.
The chairperson appreciated the administration’s efforts and urged it to ensure that no farmer was left behind in programmes aimed at strengthening the food system.
