The South-West Farmers Commodities Association has urged President Bola Tinubu to leverage all accessible human and natural resources to assist farmers in the region in bolstering agricultural development.
Olusegun Dasaolu, Coordinator of the Association, issued the plea during the Association’s courtesy visit to Pa Reuben Fasoranti, the leader of the Afenifere Group, in Akure, the capital of Ondo State.
Dasaolu expressed dismay at the marginalization of farmers in the South-West geopolitical zone regarding agricultural business. He stated, “When we assess Nigeria’s agricultural development, it’s evident that the Southwest is marginalized. It’s glaring; instead of witnessing growth in agricultural business in the region, we observe a decline.
Despite annual budget allocations for agriculture, assessments reveal below-average utilization of such funds in the Southwest. An illustrative case is the Anchor Borrowers program from the previous administration, where over a trillion naira was expended. However, the percentage allocated to the Southwest, as disclosed by the CBN, falls below 10 percent.
We aim to investigate the factors contributing to this situation and determine corrective measures to facilitate progress in the Southwest. Hence, we are gathered here in Akure, at the residence of Pa Reuben Fasoranti, a respected elder statesman and embodiment of Yoruba values, to apprise him of our mission and vision regarding agricultural development in the Southwest.
“It’s troubling to realize that in the Southwest, we’re merely consumers of agricultural products rather than active producers, despite the region’s abundant human and natural resources. We’re now compelled to take action to leverage these resources and make agriculture an appealing option for our young people.”
We must delve into agriculture to secure our food supply, and we’re taking this opportunity to appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. We believe he has the capacity to act swiftly. With abundant human and natural resources at our disposal, the President should harness these assets to support the growth of farmers in our region.”
He added that Yoruba leader Pa Reuben Fasoranti has been appointed as the group’s life patron to lead their cause.
In response, Pa Fasoranti, leader of the Afenifere Group, emphasized the importance of agriculture as part of their heritage and livelihood. He expressed a prayer that those in positions of power would support farmers.
I received my education with proceeds from agriculture, which also funded the schooling of my siblings. Agriculture is of paramount importance to me. Even in my old age, I continue to engage in farming. Without farming, hunger would prevail, emphasizing the critical need to support farmers.
