By Abbas Nazil
The Nigerian Women for Agricultural Progressive and Development Initiative (NWAPDI) has raised concern over the lack of recognition and support for female farmers, despite their pivotal role in Nigeria’s agricultural sector.
At an event held in Lagos last weekend, the organisation’s National Coordinator, Omolara Svensson, lamented that women, who constitute about 90 percent of the agricultural workforce, remain underrepresented in policy frameworks and poorly equipped to overcome systemic challenges.
Ms Svensson emphasised that female farmers’ contributions are essential in averting food insecurity in Nigeria, which has been exacerbated by climate change and inadequate infrastructure.
However, she noted that these women face numerous challenges, including limited access to modern farming techniques, essential tools, financing, and viable markets for their produce.
A significant issue highlighted by NWAPDI is the absence of reliable data to guide policies and investments in agriculture. Ms Svensson argued that the lack of robust data has hampered effective resource allocation and long-term planning, leaving female farmers at a disadvantage.
The group revealed its ambitious plan to expand Nigeria’s agricultural export capacity to $20 million by 2025 through a multifaceted approach addressing financing gaps, inadequate training, and climate change impacts.
Key strategies include training over 1,000 women and youth in climate-smart farming practices, aimed at boosting productivity while mitigating environmental damage.
One of NWAPDI’s landmark initiatives is the development of a ‘Real-Time Farming App.’ The app, described as a transformative tool, is to offer features such as crop monitoring, real-time weather updates, traceability, and market access.
Ms Svensson said it would revolutionise decision-making and enhance farming efficiency, especially for female farmers.
To further support female farmers, NWAPDI has partnered with the Bank of Agriculture and local governments to provide micro-financing and mentorship.
These partnerships aim to foster financial inclusion and ensure farmers have the resources to implement sustainable practices effectively.
Speakers at the event, including Oluwatoyin Oloyede, CEO of Mutosefiti Farms, stressed the importance of empowering women to take on leadership roles in agriculture.
They highlighted how the initiatives could reduce unemployment, curb rural-urban migration, and create economic opportunities for youth.
NWAPDI reiterated the urgent need to address the effects of climate change on agriculture, advocating sustainable practices such as organic farming, soil conservation, water-efficient irrigation, and cultivating drought-resistant crops.
The organisation envisions a future where agriculture drives economic growth and poverty eradication in Nigeria, ensuring every child and youth has access to opportunities.
NWAPDI’s Annual General Meeting, set for February 2025 in Abuja, is to serve as a platform to advance these objectives further. END