Catholic Bishops Cite Reviving Citizens' Interest in Agriculture as the Reason for Calling for Governments' Increased Attention to Agriculture

The Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria has urged governments at all levels to focus more on agriculture to revive citizens' interest in farming, ensure food security, and enhance the country’s gross domestic product. This call was made through Caritas Nigeria, the bishops’ development agency, during the flag-off ceremony of agricultural input distribution to 500 farming households in Ekiti State. The initiative, supported by Conrad Hilton, was held in Awo Ekiti, Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government Area.

During the event, 150 farmers from Ekiti South West and Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government Areas received agricultural training and were empowered with essential farming tools, including knapsack sprayers, improved maize seeds, and cassava stems. Speaking at the event, the Executive Secretary of Caritas Nigeria, Rev. Fr Peter Audu, emphasized that agriculture remains the lifeline of any nation, as food is a fundamental necessity. He urged the government to take decisive steps to revitalize the sector, ensuring adequate support for farmers.

Audu stressed the importance of creating an enabling environment for farmers, particularly those in rural communities. He pointed out that many willing farmers lack access to land and face difficulties in selling their produce due to market constraints. He advocated for government intervention in providing essential resources such as mechanization, improved seedlings, and adequate farming space to help smallholder farmers compete with mechanized agricultural enterprises.

The Director of Humanitarian Services at Caritas Nigeria, Nkese Udongwo, highlighted the program’s focus on vulnerable households, training them in climate-smart agricultural practices, and equipping them with essential inputs. She urged beneficiaries to maximize the resources provided to ensure sustainability in subsequent farming seasons.

Project Manager of the B-SLIC initiative, Bankole Akinyele, explained that the program has significantly impacted vulnerable families by reducing poverty over the past two years. He outlined how beneficiaries have been trained in good agronomic practices, homemade fertilizers and insecticides, and small ruminant care. Farmers also received livestock such as Noiler birds, goats, and piglets to boost animal husbandry. Additionally, some beneficiaries were provided with improved vegetable seeds to promote homestead gardening.

Akinyele emphasized that these initiatives aim to empower farmers, expand agricultural activities, and create sustainable livelihoods for rural communities. He reiterated the commitment to supporting 1,000 farmers in Ekiti and Lagos states this year, ensuring long-term food security and economic empowerment through agriculture.