WOFAN, stakeholders deliberate on resolutions to peacebuilding, climate-smart agriculture for food security
To address the pressing issues of peace, climate change, and food security, the Women Farmers Advancement Network (WOFAN), in collaboration with Mastercard Foundation and UN-Pollac hosted a National Dialogue on February 26, 2025, at the Reiz Continental Hotel in Abuja.
The event brought together key stakeholders to highlight the importance of peacebuilding and climate-smart agriculture for the future of Nigeria’s agricultural sector and the broader socio-economic landscape.
During his presentation, Professor Sani Miko emphasised the critical role of peace in agricultural development. According to Miko, without peace, there can be no agriculture.
He bemoaned the growing insecurity across the country, which has significantly hindered farming activities, underscoring that without a peaceful environment, the survival of Nigeria’s agricultural industry remains under threat.
Miko further stressed the undeniable impact of climate change, which exacerbates food security challenges and affects long-term peace efforts.
Hajiya Dr. Salamatu Garba, the CEO of WOFAN, highlighted the organisation’s mission of empowering rural communities, particularly women.
She said WOFAN is working on a five-year project that targets 675,000 youths, with 80% of them being women.
The project, according to Hajia Salamatu aims to provide dignifying jobs to the teeming youth and women while prioritising conflict resolution efforts.
She also discussed the importance of collaborating with the media, specifically journalists, to raise awareness about appropriate terminologies for farmers and pastoralists that will foster more effective communication and peace.
Similarly, during the event, the Etsu of Kwali, HRH Luka Ayedu, shared insights on the broader economic impact of the agricultural sector.
He pointed out that agriculture contributes to 25.75% of employment in Nigeria, making it one of the most significant sectors for national development.
The monarch also stressed the significance of supporting the agricultural sector through collaborative efforts among various stakeholders.
Ambassador Prof. Joseph, representing UN-POLAC, echoed similar sentiments, calling for a multi-faceted approach to peacebuilding that involves engaging non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and the wider society.
He suggested that securing farmlands could be achieved through community-led initiatives such as forest caps and vigilante groups, which would protect farmers from violence and insecurity.
In his address, the President of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Comrade Alhassan, stressed the role of journalists as key stakeholders in peacebuilding efforts. He reminded attendees of the critical role the media plays in shaping public opinion, providing vital information, and fostering national unity.
On his part, Prof. Tijjani Mohammed Bande, the former Chairman of the 74th UN General Assembly, shared his expertise on community-led peace and conflict resolution. He stressed the importance of contextual understanding, empowering local communities, and fostering interreligious dialogue to build lasting peace.
The event also featured a panel discussion on the topic: “How Do We Build Peace and Boost Agricultural Sustainability?” Panelists included Amb. Joseph, Royal Father Mohammed Kilishi (Sarkin Ari), Prof. Tijjani Mohammed Bande, HRH Ibrahim Hassan (Sarkin Tula), Hajiya Maimuna Lawan (Director of Strategic and Sustainability), NUJ President Comrade Alhassan, Mrs. Adewumi (President of the Association of Women Traders), and Lateef Abubakar (Solace).
The panellists agreed on the necessity of grassroots awareness initiatives, especially in primary schools, to instil the values of peace and sustainable agriculture from an early age.
They also called for the creation of a “forestry cap” to protect farmers and ensure their safety as they work in the fields.
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