Kwara Hosts North Central Agric Business Conference with Calls for Inclusive Empowerment

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L-R: Hajia Aishat Akaje, Farmer; Prince Tajudeen Ajisefini; Mrs Olubukola Nwaneri, Secretary General NABG; Mrs. Oloruntoyosi Thomas, Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development; Jafar Abubakar Umar, DG NABG; Oluleye Ann Tosin; Princess Opeyemi Adegbite; Ope Olanrewaju, CEO KCCL Logistics in a group photograph at the North Central Agric Business Conference in Ilorin.


The North Central Zonal Conference of Women and Youths in Agric Business and Entrepreneurs has been concluded in Ilorin, Kwara State, with a resounding call for all tiers of government to empower citizens through agricultural vocational skills for sustainable development.


Addressing participants at the conference, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mrs. Oloruntoyosi Thomas, underscored the Kwara State Government's commitment to inclusive policies that prioritize women, youths, and persons with disabilities. She revealed that 50% of all State agricultural programmes and initiatives are reserved for these groups. 


"Women and youths are central to every programme designed by the State because we recognize their critical role in economic transformation," Mrs. Thomas said.


Similarly, the Commissioner for Environment and Forestry, Hajia Nafisat Buge, encouraged more individuals to view agriculture as a profitable and noble venture. "Agriculture is neither dirty nor something to be ashamed of; it is a dignified and rewarding business that contributes significantly to our economy," she stated, urging participants to embrace opportunities within the sector.


The Director General of the Nigeria Agric Business for Women and Youth Farmers Entrepreneurs (NABG) Mr. Jafar Abubakar, emphasized the transformative potentials of agric business in fostering independence and economic growth. He highlighted the importance of integrating technology into agriculture to maximize output and enhance efficiency. "Women, who make up half of our population, already contribute significantly to Nigeria's GDP. Through agriculture, combined with technology and innovative business practices, they can achieve even greater heights," he said.


Mr. Abubakar also commended the Kwara State Government under Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for its youth-inclusive programmes and policies. He stressed that investing in agric business would not only reduce unemployment but also drive food security and economic transformation across Nigeria.


A key moment of the conference was the presentation by Mr. Abdulafeez Alao, a participant from Kwara State, who showcased his innovative product, "Eedu-Ramoni." This eco-friendly briquette, made from farm waste, serves as a sustainable alternative to wood-based charcoal, reducing deforestation and promoting a cleaner environment. Mr. Alao's innovation received accolades for its potential to balance environmental conservation with economic benefits.


The event was concluded with the recognition of outstanding entrepreneurs excelling in various agric business ventures, inspiring participants to explore opportunities within the sector's value chains.


The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development remains steadfast in its mission to promote agric business as a driver of sustainable development, empowering women and youths, and fostering economic transformation across Kwara State and beyond.





Omotola Ashaolu

Press Secretary

Kwara State Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development 

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