By Mustapha Shettima, Alfaya Jibrilla, & Hajara Bomai
The Association of Farmers in the Northeast (AFNEN), in collaboration with the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC), hosted a one-day lecture and inauguration ceremony aimed at strengthening food security and promoting livestock development in the region. The event was organized at the Musa Usman Secretariat by the Borno State Chapter of AFNEN, brought together key stakeholders in agriculture, including government officials, development partners, and leaders of farmers’ association and cooperative groups.
Representing RMRDC at the event were Suleiman Baba Geidam and Fatima Abba Mala, who joined participants in discussing strategies to boost agricultural growth and resilience in Northeast Nigeria.
The objectives of the event included Promoting agricultural growth in the Northeast and Fostering collaboration among farmers, government agencies, and development partners. In his keynote address, AFNEN State Chairman Baba Kundili Bukar emphasized the critical role of farmers in ensuring global food security. He praised their dedication and hard work in providing nutritious food to communities and commended the Governor of Borno State, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, for his continued support to the agricultural sector particularly in helping farmers adapt to the growing challenges of climate change.
A resource lecture delivered by Prof. Ibrahim Umara of the University of Maiduguri encouraged farmers to move beyond subsistence farming by engaging in value addition through processing and marketing of their agricultural products. According to Prof. Umara, this step is crucial for increasing income, creating jobs and contributing to the growth of local economy.
The event also featured the official inauguration of new AFNEN members. During the oath-taking ceremony, the leadership of the association urged all members to uphold the constitution of AFNEN and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The RMRDC Borno State Coordinating Office remains committed to supporting initiatives that drive sustainable agricultural development and value chain enhancement in the region.







