The All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN) has decried the hike in the price of fertilisers by suppliers and other middlemen in the distribution chain. The apex farmers’ body claimed  the subsidy paid by the government does not reflect on the price being sold to the final buyer, noting that the price is being hiked by individuals while farmers are at the receiving end.

AFAN, speaking through its National President, Arc. Kabir Ibrahim said it is high time the Federal Government took actions against suppliers who have inflated the price of the commodity, hence farmers encountering difficulties accessing and purchasing it. He also called for proper monitoring of government policies and activities to avoid bottlenecks and sharp practices at all levels.

Arc. Ibrahim while speaking during the AFAN National Executive Committee meeting held in Abuja identified the major role the organisation played to revive the Nation’s economy through the agricultural sector. Some of the interventions embarked upon by the organization he said ranged from the National Policy for Nigeria workshop held in February, 2016, The National Agricultural show in April, the launch of Agricultural Promotion Policy amongst others.

AFAN chairman, Lagos State Chapter, Otunba Femi Oke believes the Agricultural Promotion Policy is a welcome idea because of its overall benefits to grass root farmers. Also, he ascertained that AFAN was carried along through the entirety of the process, while the policy reflected the best interests of the farmers.

However, Hon. Eric Ogwo AFAN Chairman, Imo State Chapter said that the policy might not thrive if left to the government. He, therefore urged the government to allow the policy to be private sector driven, as it is more likely to be more effective with the private sector overseeing its operations.

Also speaking, Director General, National Biotechnology Development Agency, Prof. Mrs. Lucy Ogbadu admonished the stakeholders to embrace new technology that would improve yield of crops and increase income.