Hybrid farmers seek collaboration to enhance food production in Akwa Ibom

In response to the rising population and the growing demand for food security in Akwa Ibom State, the Association of Hybrid Farmers of Nigeria (AOHFN), Akwa Ibom Chapter, has called on the state government, private individuals, and organizations to join forces with them in addressing the food supply challenges in the state to make food more affordable and accessible for all households.

The appeal was made by the State Chairman, Mr. Mboutidem Daniel, during a courtesy visit to Professor Anthony Offiong, Head of the Department of Agricultural Education at the University of Uyo, on Tuesday, September 2nd.

During the visit, the Chairman praised Prof. Offiong for his numerous innovations and research contributions within the department. He expressed concern over the various challenges faced by farmers in the state, including climate change, crop-damaging pests and diseases, soil degradation, fluctuating market prices, and financial limitations.

Mr. Daniel stressed the importance of embracing innovation in agriculture, especially in an era of rapid technological advancement. He highlighted that improving productivity and minimizing waste requires collaborative efforts, which is the primary reason for their visit.

Speaking further, the chairman noted that it has become imperative for critical stakeholders to make the sector market-oriented and move away from subsistence farming by collaborating with farmers like AOHFN to achieve food security.

Mr. Mboutidem, himself a seasoned farmer, explained that agriculture is the backbone of Nigeria’s economy, employing millions and feeding a growing population. “Yet, this sector faces numerous hurdles, including outdated farming techniques and climate change impacts.

To strengthen food production, it’s crucial to collaborate across the entire agricultural value chain. This is especially true for smallholder farmers, who gain significantly from partnerships that provide modern methods, quality resources, and better market connections.”

However, he informed that members of AOHFN are into all categories of farming making it important for partnerships and collaboration.

“The Association of Hybrid farmers is made up of registered and practising farmers who have the desire to commercialize their agricultural products in larger quantities and are also ready to share their knowledge among farmers.

“We are a group of famers willing to explore and exploit all areas of agriculture to bring out new innovations and technologies that can better the lives of members and Nigerians at large.”

The president further informed that the association is fully registered with the Cooperate Affairs Commission, with Reg: NO 711297, and Federal Ministry of Agriculture Abuja, as well as Federal Capital Development Authority.

He emphasized that the Association is seeking to mobilize farmers across Nigeria for the purpose of information dissemination, welfare packages, and technological advancement.

He used the visit to thank Governor Umo Eno for making agriculture first in his Arise Agenda, by the bountiful investment in the sector which he said was already bearing fruits as well as the various successful Agricultural programmes in the state.

In his note of commendation, Prof. Anthony Offiong thanked AOHFN for leading the change in the agriculture sector and charged our people to embrace agriculture. He reiterated that The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Nyaudo U. Ndaeyo is so committed and ready to supporting their noble initiative.

The University Don advised members to diversify into various areas that are lucrative, such as beekeeping, rice production palm fruit, and fish production, which, according to him, are still untapped.

“Agriculture is a money driven sector that should be heavily invested upon, and Hybrid farming is the way to go. Be rest assured that the department would give you the needed support to obtain first-hand experience in your various programmes.” Offiong assured.

High point of the visit was the presentation of a letter of recognition as patron to Professor Offiong based on his contributions towards the development of agriculture production in the country.

Present during the visit were associate Professor Uduakobong Okon, Dr. Fidela Umo Idem, and members of AOHFN Akwa-Ibom State chapter.