NWAPDI withdraws from AFAN over disputes, lack of women inclusion
By George George Idowu
The Nigeria Women for Agricultural Progressive and Development Initiative (NWAPDI) has announced its withdrawal from the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN).
During a press briefing in Abuja recently, Omolara Svensson, NWAPDI’s National Coordinator, explained that this decision followed careful consideration and was deemed necessary due to persistent issues within AFAN.
Svensson highlighted two major reasons for the withdrawal: the poor inclusion of women in AFAN’s activities and ongoing leadership conflicts that hinder progress.
Despite her efforts to address these issues during her tenure as Head of Women in Agriculture for AFAN’s Oyo State chapter, solutions remained elusive.
NWAPDI, established as Nigeria’s first and foremost organization exclusively for women in agriculture, aims to empower women across various agricultural sectors.
Svensson emphasized that NWAPDI’s mission is to ensure significant and influential roles for women in shaping Nigeria’s agricultural landscape, a mission undermined by AFAN’s practices.
She further criticised the unstable and counterproductive environment within AFAN due to its internal leadership disputes, which impeded effective collaboration and progress.
According to her, NWAPDI, now operating independently, remains committed to advocating for women farmers and driving meaningful change in the agricultural sector.
Svensson reiterated NWAPDI’s dedication to supporting and uplifting women in agriculture through various programs and advocacy efforts, aiming for a robust and inclusive agricultural sector where women play leading roles.