FARMERS BACK NORTHERN GOVS’ N1BN MONTHLY SECURITY FUND

Farmers’ associations in Northern Nigeria have thrown their support behind the Northern Governors’ Forum’s decision to establish a N1 billion monthly security fund to tackle insecurity and protect agricultural activities in the region.

The All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN) and other farmer groups in the North made the endorsement on Friday during a joint meeting in Kaduna. They described the fund as a critical intervention that will help secure farmlands, reduce banditry, and boost food production.

AFAN National President, Mr. Kabir Ibrahim, said the security challenges have severely affected farming activities and food security in the region. “We fully back the governors’ initiative. The N1 billion monthly security fund will provide the resources needed to protect farmers and ensure they can cultivate their lands without fear,” Ibrahim stated.

The Northern Governors’ Forum had earlier resolved to contribute to the security fund to support joint operations, intelligence gathering, and community policing initiatives. The governors believe the fund will complement federal efforts and address the peculiar security issues in the North.

Farmers’ groups have pledged to work closely with security agencies and state governments to provide intelligence and support the implementation of the security measures. They also called for the inclusion of farmers in the planning and execution of security strategies in rural areas.

The development is expected to boost confidence among farmers and encourage increased agricultural investment in the region. Analysts believe that improved security will lead to higher food production and help stabilise food prices across the country.

The Northern Governors’ Forum has assured that the fund will be managed transparently with clear accountability mechanisms. The governors have also appealed to the federal government to complement their efforts with additional resources and logistical support.

As the security fund begins operations, farmers are hopeful that it will bring lasting peace to farmlands and contribute to Nigeria’s quest for food security and agricultural transformation.