Farmers’ forum inspires collaborations

SUFAN farmers in their uniform at the forum.

Held against the backdrop of the Justice, Development and Peace Commission (JDPC) premises, the Sustainable Farmers’ Association of Nigeria (SUFAN) celebrated its 15th Annual Farmers’ Forum with a commitment to advancing agriculture, rural development, and collaborations in the country.

A castor plant farmer relating with potential customers on his produce at the exhibition ground.

In his goodwill message, the Catholic Archbishop of the Ibadan Archdiocese, Most Rev. (Dr.) ‘Leke Abegunrin, reflected on the forum’s theme, emphasising the connection between eating well and preventing diseases. He commended the farmers for their pivotal role as the nation’s builders, highlighting the challenge of inadequate roads that discourage youth participation in agriculture while urging the government to address this issue promptly.

Representatives of FarmingFarmersFarms at the exhibition ground.

Addressing the pressing reality of climate change, the Director of JDPC, Ibadan, Rev. Fr. Jerome Ajakaye, praised the efforts of the Integrated Development Programme of JDPC, in guiding farmers to manage seasons effectively, ensuring year-round bountiful harvests and food security.

Some agro-produce showcased at the forum.

The Apex Chairman, Mr. Mathew Ogunmodede, lauded the farmers for their accomplishments, urging the government to formulate favourable policies to secure the future of agriculture and attract youth to the sector.

Seriki Fulani of Igboora addressing farmers and stakeholders at the event.

The Chairman, Southwest Zone of SUFAN, Evang. Adeniyi Adeyinka, in his reflection, said the event was aimed at assessing what farmers have been able to achieve or process with the investments they had since the beginning of the year. He also appealed to state governments to support farmers by constructing essential link roads, providing effective storage facilities, and implementing irrigation systems.

Farmers get free medical attention during the health corner of

The forum commenced with free health screenings for farmers by medical team from Our Lady of Apostles (OLA), Oluyoro, Ibadan. Among the diverse attendees were farmers from the Ido and Ìkirè zones, Ifeoluwa Cooperative Farmers Group, Temidire Eruwa, Olosun Alapo Livestock Farmers Group, and many more.

A farmer registering his interest to join FarmingFarmersFarms Community.

In addressing the farmers-herders relationship, the Seriki Fulani of Igboora, Mr. Abdulahi Amidu, emphasised that the majority of perpetrators of violence on farms were not caused by the Fulanis, but individuals seeking to disrupt farming communities, as he also highlighted the impact of mining activities on agricultural practices. The Agro Rangers Commandant, Oyo State, Isaac Alonge, in his remarks, stressed the need for continuous collaboration between herders and farmers.

Most Rev. Dr. ‘Leke Abegunrin, the Catholic Archbishop of Ibadan Archdiocese, engages farmers on the issue of food security.

He addressed issues of conflicts such as the alleged underage Fulani boys controlling large herds and improper monitoring of cattle along farm settlements among others; thereby outlining measures taken by agro rangers to address these concerns.

Farmers confer honour on the JDPC for its continuous efforts in training and empowering farmers.

Institutions such as the Institute of Agricultural Research and Training (IAR&T) Ibadan, Jubaili Agrotec, Noiler, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), FarmingFarmersFarms newspapers, Agro-Rangers of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the National Horticultural Research Institute (NHRI) actively participated in the event.

Some of the awardees at the event.

One of the standout moments at the forum was the heartfelt testimony from Farmer Albert Ukaeke, whose life took a transformative turn, thanks to the SUFAN and JDPC platforms. Ukaeke shared his journey, expressing deep gratitude for the invaluable knowledge he gained about vitamin A cassava and integrated farming.

Exhibited FFF Food Services’ products.

This newfound expertise not only enhanced the nutritional quality of his produce, but also positioned him as a recognised figure in his community by producing yam, cassava and also rearing pigs. Farmer Ukaeke’s success story echoed throughout the forum, inspiring fellow farmers to explore innovative approaches that contribute, not only to their own prosperity, but also to the health and well-being of the communities they serve.

Farmers also had the opportunity to share their experiences and success stories, expressing gratitude for the guidance received from JDPC and SUFAN. The forum concluded with awards recognising the contributions of facilitators and institutions supporting agricultural extension programmes to farmers while the awardees got gifted with farm produce by the farmers.

Farmer Albert Ukaeke shares his testimony of how JDPC and SUFAN has empowered him

Reflecting on the event, Farmer Eyitayo, who deals in cassava, maize, and soybeans, joyfully shares his testimony of how JDPC and SUFAN had taught him how to deal with customers, sell produce, and get good seeds.

Farmers, traditional chiefs and other attendees of the events at the exhibition ground

He also appreciated the programme, stating that it allowed him to share experiences with other farmers as they exchange ideas on how to ensure food security.

Farmer Mayowa Eyitayo shares his takeaways from the event

Farmer Albert Ukaeke and his wife, who are also farmers and were in attendance shared their experience at the SUFAN farmers forum and how they practically sold all they had.

SUFAN Chairman, Southwest zone, Mr. Adeyinka Adeniyi speaks on the aim of the event

The celebration featured the cutting of the forum’s anniversary cake, exhibitions, and sales of agro produce, including popular items like plantain, yam, and livestock as well as Ofada rice and Ijebu garri, packaged by FFF Food Services, a product line of FarmingFarmersFarms. As the programme concluded, attendees were presented with certificates of participation, marking a successful and enlightening event for all.