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Afe Babalola Urges Revival of Moribund Farm Settlements to Boost Agriculture and Employment
Aare Afe Babalola, the founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), has called on the Federal Government to rejuvenate dormant farm settlements across the country. Babalola emphasizes that this initiative would enhance food security, support local and international agricultural production, and serve as a source of raw materials for industries.
Speaking in Ado-Ekiti during a briefing on his recognition as the 2024 African Man of the Year in Food Security by the Initiative for Green Sustainability, Babalola stressed the importance of revitalizing these farm settlements. He sees it as a crucial step to unearth Nigeria's agricultural potential, emphasizing that the country's future lies in agriculture rather than crude oil.
Babalola contends that reviving abandoned farm settlements will not only contribute to food security but also generate employment opportunities for the country's youth, thereby reducing insecurity. He draws inspiration from the success of Chief Obafemi Awolowo's approach in the defunct Western Region, where farm settlements played a pivotal role in economic development.
Recalling Awolowo's legacy, Babalola highlighted the positive impact of farm settlements in the region. The revenue generated from these settlements was instrumental in constructing critical infrastructure and institutions, contributing significantly to the region's pride.
Expressing concern over the decline of agriculture in Nigeria, Babalola lamented the country's loss of its position as a leading exporter of cocoa and palm oil. He underscored the divine directive for humans to work and provide for their needs, emphasizing the spiritual and practical significance of agriculture.
Babalola acknowledged the historical success of Chief Awolowo's agricultural policies, such as the establishment of farm settlements, the Western Nigeria Marketing Board, and initiatives to promote food and cash crop production. He urged current leaders to allocate more funds to the agriculture sector, viewing it as a potent tool for poverty alleviation and food security.
Additionally, Babalola emphasized the need for sustainable policies, modern farm implements, improved seedlings, and accessible loans to make agriculture more appealing to the youth, fostering a renewed interest in the sector.
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