Agriculture remains one of the largest sectors that significantly contribute to the socioeconomic development of not only Nigeria or Africa but the world as a whole. It is a sector where both the government and private sectors are investing heavily to ensure market stability and food security. The sector contributed 22.35 percent of the total Gross Domestic Product between January and March 2021 in Nigeria.
In Nigeria, especially in the Northwest region, men are primarily known for engaging in farming activities, cultivating crops, and rearing animals. However, despite this, some women are also involved in the agricultural sector, playing a vital role in its development.
For instance, in Sokoto State, Northwest Nigeria, women have become increasingly active in agriculture, even forming an association called the Sokoto Livestock Association. In commemoration of International Women’s Day 2025, we had a one-on-one interview with the chairperson of the association, Fatima Abdullahi Ɖwazo, where she shared her success story and discussed how women can actively participate in agriculture to change the narrative in Sokoto and Nigeria in general.
Challenges
For a woman to fully engage in farming activities as men do is a significant challenge, especially in a conservative state like Sokoto. However, this does not stop some women from participating in this lucrative sector. The agricultural industry is vast, and it depends on which aspect one chooses to pursue. Some focus on cultivating farmland to grow crops and plants, while others engage in livestock farming, which can even be done within their homes.
Despite this, women in the region face cultural and societal challenges. “Women face stigmatization; some people don’t even believe we can succeed,” said Fatima. Another challenge is the lack of support from the government and individuals, making it difficult for women to strengthen their businesses and work efficiently.
“Almost everybody was saying, ‘She’s a woman, can she? Will she make it? How is it possible?'” Fatima Ɖwazo recalled, explaining how many people doubted her ability to succeed and were unwilling to support her financially.
The success story of Fatima Ɖwazo
Every business sector has its challenges, and agriculture is no exception. Despite all odds and the lack of support from individuals, Fatima was able to achieve great success in the agricultural sector. Today, she is proud of herself and her accomplishments as a woman farmer.
Her journey was not easy, but she remained committed, dedicated, and hardworking. “Now, Alhamdulillah, I have different success stories to tell,” Fatima said. She is involved in farming, owns a farm produce store, and raises livestock, including birds and animals.
According to Fatima, her dedication has made her stand out and become independent. She no longer relies on anyone, as she can now meet her own needs and even support others. “I have nothing to say but to thank God,” she expressed with gratitude.
The role of women in changing the narrative
Women can play a crucial role in transforming the agricultural sector, but have you ever considered how? Some may wonder where or in what way women can contribute. Fatima provided a clear example of how women can drive agricultural development in Sokoto and Nigeria as a whole.
There is a popular saying: “Charity begins at home.” According to Fatima, the journey can start at home, where individuals plant and grow different crops and trees in their courtyards. “You may see plantations of okra, pepper, waterleaf, and other plants being grown at home. So, whenever you need them, you can simply pick them from your garden,” Fatima explained, emphasizing how this contributes to community development.
Beyond planting crops, another essential aspect is livestock farming. Many women now rear animals such as goats, sheep, and chickens in their homes. This helps provide financial support and ensures food security. “For example, when there’s a ceremony, instead of buying meat from the market, you can simply slaughter some of your animals,” Fatima said.
Highlighting the importance of women in agriculture, Fatima further stated, “If anything arises—whether related to health or finances—you can sell some of your livestock to support yourself or your husband. If your children need school fees and your husband is struggling financially, the animals you rear can be sold to provide the necessary funds.”
Some women have also adopted a culture of saving by storing foodstuffs. “Whenever they find themselves in financial difficulty, they can simply sell their stored food,” Fatima explained. This, she said, is a form of financial empowerment, as it benefits both individuals and society.
She further noted, “Some women engage in large-scale farming, producing food items that they sell to the larger community. If you visit rural areas in Sokoto, you’ll realize that women contribute more to agriculture than men. They handle harvesting, processing, and selling agricultural products in the market. In fact, if you visit farms during the planting and harvesting seasons, you’ll see that about 70% of the workers are women.”
To ensure that women are participating in agricultural activities actively, the yet-to-be-registered association is continuing to advocate and enlighten women in Sokoto state.
A message to women in Sokoto
In her message to the women of Sokoto State and Nigeria in general, Fatima urged them not to lose hope but to pursue their dreams, work hard, and remain determined. “Don’t wait for anyone—just stand up and work hard. When you do, you will see the positive impact of your efforts,” she advised.
She also referenced Nana Khadija (RA), the wife of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), who was a successful businesswoman before her marriage. “She supported her husband financially, and it was never seen as a problem. So, there is nothing wrong with working hard and standing by your husband. It benefits you, your family, and society as a whole,” Fatima concluded.
