Inadequate Representation Sparks Women In Agriculture Protest As NWAPDI Withdraws From AFAN
The Nigeria Women for Agricultural Progressive and Development Initiative (NWAPDI) has severed ties with the All Farmers Association (AFAN).
The National Coordinator and President of the Nigeria Women for Agricultural Progressive and Development Initiative (NWAPDI), Farmer Omolara Svensson, disclosed the announcement during a press conference on Tuesday in Abuja.
Svensson stated: “We are here to discuss a significant development regarding NWAP’s progress and its relationship with the All Farmers’ Association of Nigeria (AFAN).
“After careful consideration and deliberation, the Nigeria Women for Agricultural Progressive and Development Initiative (NWAPDI) has decided to dissociate from AFAN.
“This decision has not been taken lightly but is necessary due to two primary concerns:
“The poor inclusion of women in AFAN’s activities and the ongoing leadership tussles within the organization, which I tried to address during my tenure as Head of Women in Agriculture for the Oyo State AFAN chapter.
“Despite numerous efforts to resolve these complicated issues, we have found it necessary to redirect our energy and resources to NWAP.”
She said: “NWAPDI was established as the first and foremost Nigerian organization exclusively for women involved in the agricultural sector, spanning production, processing, trade, and commerce.
“Unlike AFAN and similar organizations, NWAPDI is uniquely focused on empowering and supporting women in agriculture across Nigeria.
“Our mission is to ensure that women have a significant and influential role in shaping the agricultural landscape of our country.
“However, despite our efforts, we have observed a persistent lack of meaningful inclusion and recognition of women within AFAN, undermining our core objectives and the progress we strive to achieve.”
“Additionally, the continuous leadership disputes within AFAN have created an unstable and counterproductive environment.
“These internal conflicts have hampered effective collaboration and progress, making it increasingly challenging for NWAP to fulfill its mandate under such circumstances.
“As of today, NWAPDI stands as the only registered and authorized women-only agricultural initiative in Nigeria,” she added.
She continued: “This position underscores our commitment to creating a focused, inclusive, and progressive platform for women in agriculture.
“By standing independently, we believe we can more effectively advocate for the interests of women farmers and drive meaningful change within the agricultural sector.
She assured Nigerians and members of NWAPDI that “moving forward, NWAP will continue to work tirelessly to support and uplift women in agriculture through various programs, initiatives, and advocacy efforts.
“We remain dedicated to our vision of a robust and inclusive agricultural sector where women play a leading and decisive role.
“We thank you for your understanding and support as we navigate this new chapter.
“NWAPDI remains steadfast in our commitment to empowering women in agriculture and contributing to the sustainable development of Nigeria’s agricultural industry.”
