The member representing Ifako-Ijaye Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Benjamin Olabinjo, has called for greater access and support for women in agriculture, noting their critical role in ensuring food security across Nigeria.
Olabinjo made this call on Thursday at the Women in Agriculture Summit organised by the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN) in Lagos. Themed “She Farms, She Cares: The Role of Women in the Food Security Chain,” the summit highlighted the central role of women in agricultural production.
“No discussion on food security is complete without acknowledging the role of women,” Olabinjo said. “They are not just assistants in agriculture – they are key drivers of national food production.”
He outlined necessary steps to empower women in the sector, including improved access to land, security, financing, education, agricultural extension services, and training.
Citing data from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Olabinjo noted that if women had equal access to productive resources as men, agricultural output in developing countries could rise by up to 30 per cent, potentially lifting 150 million people out of hunger globally.
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“In Nigeria, empowering women farmers could significantly increase our GDP, reduce rural poverty, and strengthen long-term food security,” he added.
In his welcome address, Mr Femi Oke, Southwest Chairman of AFAN, emphasised the importance of recognising and supporting women in agriculture. He described women as the backbone of Nigeria’s farming sector, particularly in driving food security efforts.
“This sensitisation is aimed at young and aspiring farmers, and especially at women, to highlight their challenges and the kind of interventions they require from government,” Oke said.
He praised women farmers for their resilience and commitment, noting their productivity despite balancing family responsibilities.
“We, male farmers, stand with the women in this sector. Their contributions are invaluable, and the association of women farmers has firmly established its place in Lagos.”
Oke also stressed the need to involve more young people in agriculture.
“Young farmers are already becoming active in the sector. We have a youth wing within AFAN, and the Federal Government is now offering grants to farmers aged between 18 and 35. Their participation is vital for the future of Nigerian agriculture,” he said.
