By Daniel Tyokua
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) and other stakeholders have charted path on improved organic agriculture practices nationwide.
At a 2024 national organic and agroecology business summit recently in Abuja, stakeholders took turn to speak on the additional areas of promoting the practices.
The mandate secretary, FCT Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat, Lawan Geidam advocated for sustainable practice to develop resilient food systems that will benefit people.
The event with the theme,’Towards Policies for Upscaling Organic Agroecological Businesses in Nigeria’ aimed at fostering growth in the organic agriculture sector.
Geidam who was represented by acting director, Agric Services in the Secretariat, Mr. Ofili Bennett, emphasized the success of organic and agroecological farming relies on the active involvement of farmers, businesses and consumers.
He reassured attendees that the FCT Administration, led by the Minister Nyesom Wike and Minister of State Dr Mariya Mahmoud, remains dedicated to supporting initiatives that enhance the livelihood of residents.
Geidam described the partnership between the Secretariat and the organic and Agroecology initiative for a monthly exhibition and sale of organic products in the FCTA premises as a testament to this commitment.
“The ARDS remains committed to driving policies and initiatives that align with national goals and global standards,” stated Geidam.
On her part, Chairperson of Organic and Agroecology Initiative, Mrs. Janet Igho, urged residents to embrace healthy eating habits to sustain a good lifestyle. She emphasized the importance of adopting organic practices, highlighting the benefits of going organic, growing organic, consuming organic products.
Igho expressed her optimism regarding the Agricultural Revival Programmes as articulated in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda,” which aims at fostering food and nutrition security.
She also extended her gratitude to the Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat (ARDS) for graciously allocating a space in the FCTA premises for the exhibition and sale of organic products, noting that the platform has been effectively used to advance the promotion of organic agriculture in FCT.
Mrs. Igho outlined several benefits of organic agriculture which includes improved soil health, increased biodiversity, availability nutritious and healthy food and a reduced carbon footprint.
Stakeholders at the summit, underscored the critical need for enhanced private sector involvement and robust capacity building initiatives for farmers. They highlighted the importance of implementing supportive policies to foster the growth of the organic agriculture sector. In light of the significant challenges facing Nigeria’s agricultural landscape, stakeholders concurred that organic agricultural practices present sustainable solutions and a pathway for a more resilient and productive farming systems.
The three-day summit featured exhibitions showcasing organic foods, fruits, vegetables and fertilizers, providing an opportunity for residents to better appreciate the benefits of production and consumption of organic agricultural products.
