The National President, Nigeria Women in Agriculture Development and Progressive Initiative (NWAPDI), Mrs. Omolara Swenson, has reaffirmed the association’s commitment to empowering women and youths in agriculture. She emphasised that inclusiveness will be at the core of her mandate as the new Special Assistant to the Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security.

Speaking during the inauguration of newly elected officers of NWAPDI, in Abuja, Swenson said her appointment would not disrupt existing collaborations with organisations such as the Smallholder Women Farmers Organisation in Nigeria (SWOFON) and SHE Farmers. “We are all under the umbrella of the All Farmers Association, and nothing will change in our joint efforts.”

She noted that the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security already has a blueprint in place for the year 2025, and her primary focus will be ensuring that the office of the Minister of State reaches grassroots women and youth farmers.

“We will ensure 100 per cent inclusiveness when it comes to women in agriculture, especially by introducing innovations that support food security,” she said.

Addressing the challenges of marginalisation in accessing finance, land, and inputs, Swenson acknowledged the expertise of the Minister of State, an agricultural economist, which she said would ease implementation of key initiatives. “Working under a leader who understands the needs of real farmers makes my job easier.”

The Deputy President of NWAPDI praised Swenson’s leadership, commending her dedication to ensuring women receive what rightfully belongs to them in the agricultural sector.

Reflecting on the progress of the association, Swenson expressed appreciation for how far NWAPDI has come in the past one year despite various challenges. She highlighted a ‘major shift’ in the association’s leadership impact and lauded the current administration’s commitment to food security and inclusive growth.

She also thanked the ministry for prioritising the inclusion of women and youth, particularly by appointing a grassroots-experienced leader like herself. “This appointment is not political, but the right thing to do for the smallholder women farmers,” she stated.

In line with the association’s constitution, Swenson announced leadership changes following internal elections. Plateau State Coordinator emerged as Deputy National Coordinator, creating vacancies in the North Central and Plateau positions. Farmer Majid was elected to lead in Plateau, while the Benue State Coordinator was voted in as North Central Coordinator.

Swenson stated that the new Deputy National Coordinator will act as National Coordinator, working closely with the ministry to ensure real farmers, not portfolio farmers, benefit from government interventions.