In a renewed push to transform Nigeria’s agricultural sector, the Federal Government is partnering with the Agricultural Farmers and Traders Development Association of Nigeria (AFTDAN) to strengthen the agricultural value chain, enhance market access, and promote sustainable farming practices. The collaboration was highlighted during the official inauguration of AFTDAN’s Board of Trustees and members on Wednesday in Abuja.
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, who was represented at the event, described the association’s establishment as a welcome development in national efforts to ensure food security, job creation, and economic stability. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting initiatives that elevate the welfare and productivity of Nigeria’s farmers and traders, describing them as central to the country’s growth and development.
The Nigeria Governors Forum also expressed its full support for the initiative. Speaking on behalf of the forum, the representative of the Kwara State Governor said the formation of AFTDAN marks a new chapter in the revitalization of Nigeria’s agricultural landscape. He emphasized the sector’s critical role in sustaining the economy and driving future prosperity.
The event also featured remarks from the National President of AFTDAN, who noted that the organization is a non-governmental platform focused on agricultural development and improving farmers’ livelihoods. He said the association was created to collaborate with government and private stakeholders in the fight against hunger while restoring dignity to Nigeria’s farmers.
He pointed to key challenges confronting Nigerian agriculture, including seasonal dependence, land degradation, poor irrigation systems, low levels of mechanization, limited market access, and weak extension services. Pest infestations and disease outbreaks were also cited as persistent threats. Despite these obstacles, he affirmed that AFTDAN is ready to mobilize expertise and leverage support systems to contribute meaningfully to national food security.
Also lending his voice to the discussion was the traditional ruler of Abaji, represented by a community leader, who called for a stronger focus on rural agriculture. He described farming as the most reliable and sustainable path toward national development, urging stakeholders to invest more in rural communities where agricultural potential remains underutilized.
The newly inaugurated association is expected to play an advocacy and implementation role in Nigeria’s agricultural ecosystem. AFTDAN aims to work closely with the government and other actors to drive sustainable agriculture, support farmers’ rights, and promote policies that lead to economic empowerment across rural and urban areas.
With Nigeria facing increasing concerns over food insecurity and economic vulnerability, the formation of AFTDAN signals a step toward a more inclusive and coordinated approach to agricultural transformation.
