The All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN) has called on the Federal Government to foster collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and other farmers’ associations to ensure the effective implementation of the food security plan.
Dr. Femi Oke, the Chairman of AFAN Lagos and South-West Zone, made this appeal on Wednesday, in Lagos while reacting to President Bola Tinubu’s national broadcast.
Oke commended the broadcast as a welcome development, as it aimed to mitigate the impact of high food prices in the markets.
However, he expressed doubts about the plan’s successful implementation without proper planning and synergy with relevant stakeholders.
According to Oke, if the government employs appropriate techniques and expertise, the food security plan can be achieved successfully.
He stressed the importance of utilizing technology, which he noticed was not mentioned in the President’s speech.
“While supplying fertilizer and grains is good, we want the government to work closely with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and especially AFAN, which is the umbrella body of farmers in the country. By involving AFAN, the implementation of all the palliatives can be evenly distributed and accounted for,” said Oke.
He emphasized that modernizing agriculture through the integration of technology was essential for boosting food production and improving farm practices.
Oke suggested that the government introduce smaller machines and modern agricultural equipment that would be useful to farmers.
By adopting modern technology, Nigeria’s agriculture sector can advance and keep up with other developed countries.
Oke further highlighted the need to strengthen extension services within the Federal Ministry of Agriculture.
Well-equipped and well-trained extension officers can provide valuable support and knowledge to farmers, further enhancing agricultural practices and productivity.
In conclusion, AFAN called on the government to prioritize collaboration with relevant stakeholders, especially AFAN, for the successful implementation of the food security plan.
Additionally, they urged the government to embrace modern agricultural technology to revolutionize the sector and ensure sustainable food production in Nigeria.
