By hannover-web.com Arthur Eriye
In a recent move to bolster agroecology practices, the federal government has urged key stakeholders in the agriculture and finance sectors throughout West Africa to adopt innovative financing strategies. This call to action was made by the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, during the Regional Forum on Agroecology and Organic Agriculture in West Africa. The forum, held in Abuja, focused on the theme, “Financing the Transformation of Sustainable Food and Nutrition Systems for Food Sovereignty in West Africa through Organic Agriculture and Agroecology; Considering What Policies, Mechanisms and Instruments?”
Dr. Ibrahim Tanimu, the Director of Planning and Policy Coordination at the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, represented the minister at the forum. He emphasized the urgency of the discussion, particularly in the context of Nigeria’s agricultural landscape.
Identifying finance as a pivotal constraint in food system development, Kyari highlighted the importance of strategic financing for achieving food security. He stressed the need to pinpoint barriers that hinder access to critical financing, specifically focusing on economic and fiscal policies that affect the sector.
“I encourage you all to critically consider how you can promote and leverage financing strategies that support agroecology and organic agriculture, enhancing local consumption while also tapping into regional and global trade under the African Continental Trade Agreement (AfCTA),” he stated.
The Minister also advocated for sharing experiences related to the sustainable use of resources, addressing soil health, pest control, and the protection of biodiversity and ecosystems.
“We must collaborate to establish a sustainable and resilient food system, ensuring a secure future not just for West Africa, but for the global community as well,” he emphasized.
Kyari also acknowledged that discussions around food production—now often referred to as “food systems”—remain a top priority on the global agenda. He underscored that agroecology and organic agriculture present a viable solution as the region works toward securing its food future.
“By adopting sustainable agricultural practices, stakeholders can boost biodiversity, enhance soil health, and support vital ecosystem services. Furthermore, agroecology and organic farming empower smallholder farmers, especially women, enabling them to improve their livelihoods and contribute to local economic development,” he added.
New Accelerator Programme to Empower 350 Nigerian Women
Kayode Tokede
FirstCity Monument Bank (FCMB) has launched the Fempreneur Accelerator programme as part of its ‘SheVentures’ initiative, with the goal of empowering 350 women entrepreneurs. This initiative seeks to provide both financial and non-financial support to Women Small and Medium Enterprises (WSMEs) across Nigeria.
In partnership with Shecluded—a finance and capacity-building organization aimed at supporting women entrepreneurs—the Fempreneur Accelerator programme is designed to tackle the unique challenges faced by female entrepreneurs in the region. The program will offer technical assistance and crucial resources, equipping participants with essential skills, including financial management, business planning, and access to funding opportunities. The overarching aim is to bridge the gaps that often impede women-led businesses from reaching their full potential.
Felicia Obozuwa, the Divisional Head of Corporate Services and Service Management at FCMB, reaffirmed the bank’s dedication to supporting women in business.
“At FCMB, we understand the critical role that women entrepreneurs play in fostering economic growth. Our partnership with Shecluded is a testament to our commitment to creating an inclusive environment where women can flourish. Through the FEMPRENEUR Programme, we intend to provide not just financial support, but also avenues for women to build sustainable businesses that significantly contribute to Nigeria’s economy,” she explained.
The Founder of Shecluded, Ifeoma Uddoh, expressed her excitement about the collaboration, emphasizing its potential impact on empowering women entrepreneurs across the country.
