By Omoyeni Ojeifo
ActionAid Nigeria has reached a significant milestone, supporting over 135,000 smallholder farmers, women, and youths through its agroecology and climate justice initiatives.
This achievement was highlighted on Wednesday in Abuja during a National Town Hall Meeting focused on the Land Use Act and enhancing land access for marginalized groups in sustainable farming.
Addressing the gathering, Funmi Olukeye ActionAid’s Director of People and Culture, representing the Secretary General emphasized that these interventions underscore the organization’s enduring commitment to inclusive agricultural development.
“We have supported over 135,000 smallholder farmers, women, and young people through our agroecology and climate justice programmes,” she said.
She explained that the initiative is aimed at strengthening climate, resilient agriculture and improving food systems by equipping farmers with practical skills and support.
According to her, land remains central to agricultural production, rural livelihoods, and climate adaptation, stressing that without secure access and control, many smallholder farmers remain constrained.
“Land is not just a productive asset; it is the foundation upon which agroecology, resilience, and sustainable livelihoods are built.”
Olukeye noted that despite progress in some communities, women and youth farmers continue to face structural barriers including land insecurity, gender inequality, and competing land uses.
The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to working with stakeholders to promote inclusive, gender responsive, and youth friendly land governance systems that support sustainable agriculture and food security in Nigeria.
The gathering brought together government officials from the Ministry of Agriculture and food sexurity, Ministry of Lands, and community leaders to strengthen collaboration on policy implementation and grassroots engagement.
Author
Leave a comment