The founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti, Aare Afe Babalola (SAN), appeals to President Bola Tinubu to revive moribund farm settlements, emphasizing their critical role in revitalizing the country’s economy.
Babalola expresses lament over the inadequate efforts of governments at all levels in the agricultural sector. He highlights Nigeria’s historical prominence as a leading exporter of cocoa and palm oil, attributing the decline to neglect of the agricultural sector.
Reviving moribund farm settlements, according to Babalola, would significantly contribute to food security, boost agricultural production for local consumption and export, and provide essential raw materials for industries.
Speaking in Ado Ekiti, Babalola discloses his selection as the 2024 African Man of the Year in Food Security. The award recognizes his commitment to promoting agriculture and sparking students’ interest in the field.
Babalola sees the award as a call to further contribute to the country’s development, particularly in agriculture. He recalls Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s success in promoting agriculture through farm settlements and urges governments to consider passionately reviving them.
Highlighting the potential benefits, Babalola emphasizes job creation for unemployed youth and a reduction in insecurity. He calls for increased annual budgetary allocations to the agriculture sector, believing it can lift millions of Nigerians out of poverty and ensure food security.
Additionally, Babalola stresses the urgency of implementing sustainable policies and providing support such as modern farm implements, improved seedlings, and soft loans to make agriculture more attractive to the youth.
