The Ogun State chapter of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN) has urged the state and federal governments to support farmers for increased food production in the country.

Abiodun Ogunjimi, secretary of the association, made the call in an interview on Saturday in Abeokuta. “Our governments are doing their best but need to invest more in the agricultural sector,” he said.

Mr Ogunjimi said governments should encourage farmers not to lose focus or interest in farming to sustain food production in the country.

“Farmers need to be supported with inputs, finance, easy access to loans, and land preparations, among others,” he said, while decrying the challenges faced by farmers, noting that this has affected the food supply.

“Most farmers have invested heavily without realising a profit, and they find it difficult to reinvest due to financial constraints. We have to practicalise the cliche of ‘no farmer, no nation’, which translates to no food,” he said.

Mr Ogunjimi urged governments and other relevant agencies to motivate the youths to embrace farming and avail them of modern farming methods and techniques.

“The old farming methods are still being applied in several areas, and this greatly discourages the youths. Governments should support farmers with mechanised equipment to make the venture attractive and less stressful.

“They should ensure that farmers access farm inputs, fertilisers, agro chemicals, seedlings, among others, to enhance food production,” he said. 

(NAN)