A new chapter for Nigerian farmers was opened yesterday as the All-Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN) launched a National Farmers’ Data Bank, Helpline, and Digital Identity Card.
The initiative was introduced to give farmers a unified platform, protect them from exploitation, and ensure their voices are heard in shaping agricultural policies.
It was explained by AFAN National President, Dr. Faruk Rabiu Mudi, that the toll-free helpline 0800-000-AFAN (0800-000-2326) had been created to serve as a direct complaints channel, while the digital ID card was designed to safeguard farmers’ information from abuse by local or foreign actors.
Farmers’ marginalization, despite representing nearly 70 percent of Nigeria’s population, was lamented. It was stressed that agriculture could only guarantee food security if driven by private sector investment and international support.
The President of the Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria, Aminu Goronyo, maintained that agriculture remained Nigeria’s strongest economic asset, capable of surpassing oil revenue if well harnessed.
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Similarly, the National President of the Poultry Association of Nigeria, Sunday Eze Obiora, warned that unchecked food importation was crippling local production, threatening jobs, and undermining food security. He urged authorities to prioritize policies that would strengthen domestic agriculture and secure farmers’ livelihoods.
With the unveiling, a single voice has been created for farmers nationwide — one that is expected to reshape the sector and reposition it at the heart of Nigeria’s economic growth.