Commodity Allied Farmers' chairman calls for AFAN unity

 

The chairman, Commodity Allied Farmers Association of Nigeria (COMAFAS), Dr. Austin Maduka has advocated for a more united All Farmers Association of Nigeria ( AFAN).

Dr. Austin Maduka in a message tagged " Call for a stronger united AFAN" said that the unity within the agricultural sector is key for the nation's progress along with small holders farmers, saying that the leadership of Hon. Mohammed Mogagi Gettado should embrace engagement to all stakeholders in order to chart a proactive direction for the sector.

Read the full message titled "CALL FOR A STRONGER UNITED AFAN"

" I am deeply grateful to the Almighty God for the blessings and mercies bestowed upon us in the year 2025. Despite facing various challenges, we have also been showered with abundant favors that will forever be cherished. It is with sincere appreciation that I acknowledge the exemplary leadership of Arch Kabiru Ibrahim, the former National President of AFAN, for overseeing a successful election process and ensuring a seamless handover to the newly elected National Executive. The recent acceptance by the Honourable Minister of Agriculture and Food Security marks a significant achievement for our organization.

It is imperative for us to recognize that unity within the agricultural sector is vital for the progress and prosperity of our nation and the smallholder farmers of Nigeria. I appeal to my esteemed colleague, Dr. Farouk Rabi'u Mudi, to put aside any dispute and withdraw ongoing legal proceedings. It is essential that our internal disagreements be resolved amicably, as we are a united family working towards the common goal of advancing our industry and serving our members.

As stakeholders in the Nigerian Agricultural Sector, it is our duty to engage with relevant authorities and seek common ground to address our differences. The unity of AFAN is paramount for the advancement of our farmers and the overall growth of the sector. I urge all parties involved to prioritize collaboration and cooperation for the greater good of the agricultural community.

Looking ahead to the new year, we must establish a clear direction for AFAN, devise a roadmap for unity, and implement programs that cater to the needs of smallholder farmers. This includes ensuring farmers' security, enhancing access to agricultural inputs, providing training and extension services, improving data collection efforts, and implementing a national farmers' scheme. We should also focus on organizing a National Farmers Summit, promoting cooperative strategies, and developing cottage industries for value addition.

I commend the initiatives of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led administration and emphasize the importance of government-farmer association collaboration in implementing impactful policies and programs. I urge the newly elected president, Hon. Mohammed Magaji Gettado, to engage promptly with key stakeholders, particularly leaders of agricultural commodity associations, for a National Emergency Meeting to chart a course for our collective success.

Hon. Magaji, we have collaborated closely in various capacities, including as members of the APC Agricultural Commodity Stakeholders group and as National Executives of the Nigeria Cassava Growers Association (NCGA). Let us set aside our differences, come together as one, and work collaboratively to elevate the agricultural sector and enhance the lives of our farmers.

I am Dr. Austine Maduka, the founder and chairman of COMAFAS and the National President of the National Walnut Growers, Processor, and Marketers Association of Nigeria"