While expressing gratitude for the resumption of farm input distribution by the Edo State government, the All Farmers’ Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Edo Chapter, has emphasized that young farmers in the state require more comprehensive support to thrive.
According to AFAN, access to funding, modern infrastructure, and mechanized equipment are critical to unlocking the potential of the state’s burgeoning agricultural sector.
Mr. Unity Edosa, the Youth Leader of AFAN and Managing Director of Emedos Agro Industries Limited, highlighted the multifaceted challenges facing young farmers in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN). “We need more than just farm inputs to make agriculture viable for young people,” Edosa stated.
Despite a growing interest in agriculture among the youth, Edosa noted that several obstacles hinder their progress. These include difficulties in accessing affordable funding, the high cost of essential inputs, security concerns in certain farming regions, inadequate rural road networks that inflate transportation costs, and a lack of access to modern equipment and relevant training programs.
“Many young people are eager to engage in farming, but without mechanization and proper training, it becomes a daunting task,” Edosa explained. He added that the recent resumption of input distribution by Governor Monday Okpebholo was a welcome development, signaling a renewed focus on agriculture within the state.
Edosa emphasized that practical support in the form of accessible funding, mechanized farming equipment, and access to markets is crucial to attracting and retaining young people in the agricultural sector. As AFAN youth leader, Edosa sees his role as uniting young farmers, advocating for their needs, and ensuring their voices are heard in policy discussions.
A key focus for Edosa is changing the perception that agriculture is merely a traditional or subsistence activity. “I am working to encourage more youths to view agriculture as a serious business opportunity,” he stated. He emphasized that modern agriculture encompasses technology, innovation, business strategy, and even digital solutions.
Drawing from his personal experience, Edosa shared how his mother turned to farming after the loss of his father, demonstrating its potential to provide for families. Witnessing this success, coupled with the realities of unemployment and food insecurity, convinced him that agriculture could be a powerful engine for wealth creation and community empowerment.
Edosa pointed out that opportunities within the agricultural sector extend far beyond traditional crop cultivation. He highlighted rapidly expanding areas such as food processing, packaging, poultry farming, fish farming, export, greenhouse farming, and agricultural technology as promising avenues for young entrepreneurs.
AFAN’s youth group focuses on mentorship, training programs, awareness campaigns, and facilitating connections to opportunities. Edosa also emphasized the importance of cooperative groups, noting that they make it easier for young farmers to access grants, partnerships, and bulk purchasing options for inputs.
“Farming today is a business that demands careful planning, innovation, and patience,” Edosa stated. “Once young people understand that farming can generate a steady income and create independence, they will begin to approach it with greater seriousness.”
Edosa urged the government and private investors to facilitate easier access to funding, provide modern farming equipment, improve rural infrastructure, support agricultural training initiatives, and implement policies that incentivize young entrepreneurs to enter the agricultural sector.
“Agriculture grows faster when there is collaboration between the public and private sectors,” Edosa concluded. “Young people have the energy and ideas; they simply need the right support system to thrive.”