Abuja: The All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN) has launched a digital identity card and database platform to enhance the farmers' register and accurately capture member identities across the country. AFAN also established an advisory board to advocate for members' interests and liaise with the government.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the National President of AFAN, Dr. Farouk Rabiu-Mudi, emphasized that the digital database would offer farmers a platform to address challenges in farming systems and food production. He highlighted the struggles of Nigerian farmers, who, despite constituting a significant portion of the population, lack a unified voice and proper documentation of their data.
Rabiu-Mudi noted that the advisory board includes individuals with experience in various business sectors and large organizations, aiming to support AFAN's efforts and amplify the voice of farmers. He also announced the inauguration of a farmers' databank and helpline to assist members and address their concerns.
The new digital ID card will authenticate membership and ensure data is controlled by commodity associations. Rabiu-Mudi explained that any support intended for farmers must go through the relevant commodity association president for verification before data release.
Mr. Adeyemo Ayooluwa, Head of Operations at Grotechnologies, the project consultant, stated that the platform would facilitate farmers' access to loans and benefits from the Bank of Agriculture. AFAN has deployed agents nationwide to aid farmers, including those who are illiterate, in enrolling in the database.
Additionally, Mr. Sunday Obiora, National President of the Poultry Association of Nigeria, remarked on the reduction in prices of feed, frozen chicken, and eggs due to certain government policies.