Victoria Mgbanwa
The Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, in collaboration with the International Centre for Environmental Health and Development (ICEHD) and other stakeholders, is taking strategic steps to revise the National Gender Policy on Agriculture.
This initiative is aimed at empowering rural women farmers, enhance gender equality, and drive sustainable agricultural practices in Nigeria.
The policy, first launched on October 31, 2019, has reached the end of its five-year cycle.
Speaking at a workshop in Abuja, Dr. Marcus Ogunbiyi, Permanent Secretary of the ministry, represented by Mrs. Kachallah Damaturu, Director of Special Duties, emphasized the critical role of women in agriculture and the need to refine the policy to address their challenges.
“Rural women farmers are the backbone of agriculture sector. The review process will ensure their voices are heard, barriers are addressed, and opportunities are equitably distributed.
“We must recognize the importance of a collaborative approach. We will work closely with ICEHD, government and other non-government organizations, civil society, and the private sectors to ensure our efforts are complementary and effective.” Ogunbiyi stated.
The review is part of a broader effort to align government and stakeholder initiatives towards gender equality in agriculture.
Ogunbiyi highlighted the ministry’s commitment to partnerships, noting that collaborative efforts with civil society, private sector players, and international organizations will help strengthen the framework for impactful implementation.
Mrs. Damaturu, in her remarks, underscored the review as a chance to transform women’s participation in agriculture, going beyond administrative tasks to create meaningful change.
She stressed the need to identify gaps in the current policy and implement innovative strategies to empower women farmers.
She said, “We seek to identify gaps in our current policy framework and explore innovative strategies that can empower women in agriculture.
“Your contributions are invaluable as we strive for a more inclusive agricultural landscape”.
Dr. Maryam Keshinro, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, represented by Mr. Adamu Samaila Web, added that the review must reflect the evolving needs of women, men, and youths in the agricultural sector.
She called for a unified approach from all stakeholders to translate the policy into tangible benefits for rural communities.
A key highlight of the event was the presentation of findings on gender-based violence in agrifood systems, underscoring the intersection of gender equity and human rights within the sector. Representatives from women farmer associations, the Federal Ministry of Environment, AGRA, Plan International, and others actively contributed to discussions aimed at shaping a more inclusive agricultural landscape.
