The founder and Chancellor of the Afe Babalola University Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), Aare Afe Babalola (SAN), has reiterated his calls for Nigeria’s return to the era of full agricultural practice, saying no nation, especially in Africa, can thrive without the sector.
Speaking at his investiture as African Man of the Year in Food Security, bestowed on him by the Global Food Security Initiative for Green Sustainability/FIGS- Africa, which was held at ABUAD over the weekend, Babalola described Nigeria as a net-consuming country.
Babalola noted that Nigeria cannot achieve development without prioritising the large-scale production of goods and services, particularly in agriculture.
He urged the government at all levels to create a conducive environment for farmers, saying this would enable the subnational to become a self-sustaining food hub.
“What caused problems for us in this country is that we do not produce, and yet, we eat. Those who do not work do not deserve to eat; that is what the Bible taught us,” said Babalola.
“When I started this university, I made agriculture my priority. I also founded the Association of Afe Babalola Farmers in Ekiti. We do an annual gathering where we give out money to the best farmers in all 16 Local Government Areas, annually.
“Today, as we speak, my farmers have been influencing people positively in Oyo, Lagos and Osun, among several others.”
He also urged the government to borrow a leaf from Obasanjo and encourage Nigerians to farm.
“When Obasanjo was in power, he made farming a matter of must, for everybody. However, it is unfortunate that as a result of abandonment, we are still not there, as most Nigerians today complain of hunger. I do not believe any Nigerian should complain of hunger, especially with our God-given fertile lands, lots of rains and so on.”
In his remarks, the Country Representative of the global body, Caleb Osasona, explained that Babalola’s contributions to the development of agriculture and food security earned him the award.
Osasona admired Babalola’s commitment and dedication towards agriculture, saying Nigeria would have been more developed and food-secure if such actions were replicated nationwide.
Speaking at the event, Ekiti Governor Biodun Oyebanji commended the contributions of the legal icon to the agricultural sector.
Oyebanji, represented by the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Ebenezer Boluwade, described the continental recognition and the award to Babalola as a moment of glory and pride for the state.
He described the elder statesman as a man of vision, tenacity and commitment. He said his works and landmark achievements in agriculture have redefined and reinforced food security in Nigeria, inspired generations of young farmers and demonstrated that agriculture is not just a tool for survival but a gateway to prosperity.
“Through the ABUAD Bio-Diversified Farms and the Afe Babalola Annual Agricultural Grants to farmers, among other laudable gestures, he has shown Africa what is possible when intellect meets innovation in agriculture.
“In Ekiti State, we are proud to align with, and take a cue from the laudable programs of this great sage,” he added.
