The Kwara State Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has suspended the state chapter of the All Farmers’ Association of Nigeria (AFAN) and set up a seven-member multi-stakeholder caretaker committee to represent the interests of farmers across the state.
The decision, announced after a meeting between the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Afeez Abolore Alabi, and AFAN representatives in Ilorin, aims to prevent an ongoing leadership crisis within the association from negatively impacting farmers. The crisis, which involves court litigation and disputes among various interest groups, has raised concerns over the efficient management of agricultural resources and support in the state.
The newly appointed caretaker committee includes:
Abdullahi ibn Ahmed (Kwara North)
Alhaja Shakira AbdulGaniy Kodokodo (Kwara Central)
Barr. Fatai Alabi Olaokun (Kwara South)
Nmadu Wodu Ruth (Kwara North)
Abdulrahman Ameen Babatunde (Kwara Central)
Florence Taiye O. (Kwara South)
Usman Baba Aliyu (Kwara North)
The committee members were selected from various interest groups within the agricultural sector to ensure inclusivity and transparency in decision-making.
According to a statement from the ministry, the committee’s primary responsibilities include overseeing the fair distribution of agricultural inputs, restoring trust in the sector, and ensuring that resources reach the intended farmers, particularly in preparation for the upcoming planting season.
“The idea is to allow for a more inclusive environment in the agricultural value chain, improved transparency, and better reporting on local activities,” the statement read. “By implementing this reform, the Kwara State Government aims to ensure that agricultural support is distributed more effectively.”
The government emphasized that it will closely monitor the caretaker committee’s activities to ensure that this intervention delivers tangible benefits to farmers. The goal, the ministry stated, is to strengthen the agricultural sector, enhance food security, and promote sustainable growth in the state.
Farmers and stakeholders are encouraged to engage with the caretaker committee, provide feedback, and contribute to building a more efficient agricultural system in Kwara State.
Ashaolu Omotola
Press Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development
