BATNF Advocates Sustainable Solutions for Agriculture in Nigeria

Raheem Akingbolu

In a bold move toward its commitment to fostering sustainable agricultural practices, the British American Tobacco Nigeria Foundation hosted its biennial Agribusiness Dialogue Session, aimed to address the challenges faced by Agripreneurs and create sustainable paths in the agricultural sector. 

The dialogues session held in Lagos, centered around the theme, “Turning Challenges into Opportunities: Establishing Sustainable Strategies and Pathways for Smallholder Farmers in the Agrifood System,” underscores the Foundation’s to support agribusiness and grow sustainable agriculture in the country.

Executive Director, British American Tobacco Nigeria Foundation (BATNF), Ololade Johnson-Agiri, in her opening remark stated that since the inception of the Foundation in 2002, the Foundation has remained committed on sustainable agriculture development and the improvement of livelihoods of smallholder farmers, their families, and communities.

“In her words: “Since the establishment of the BATN Foundation in 2002, we have been working determinedly to empower smallholder farmers through a range of programmes and initiatives. We believe that smallholder farmers are the key to unlocking Nigeria’s agricultural potential and ensuring food security for future generations.”

Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), Professor Olusola Kehinde, in a keynote address commended BATN Foundation for focusing on helping smallholder farmers in Nigeria succeed while also acknowledging the challenges that must be addressed in order to achieve sustainable agriculture.

Director, Enterprise Development Centre, Pan-Atlantic University, Nneka Okekearu, in her goodwill message encouraged stakeholders to be intentional about advancing sustainable agriculture and supporting the well-being of farmers and rural communities.