The British American Tobacco Foundation (BATNF) has explained why it takes pleasure in supporting smallholder farmers and equipping them with the necessary tools and resources to succeed.
Adebisi Lamikanra, Chairperson of the Board at the BATN Foundation, while speaking at the Foundation’s 20th anniversary event which brought together stakeholders, partners, and beneficiaries to reflect on the Foundation’s journey and accomplishments at the Civic Centre in Lagos, said that the Foundation’s emphasis on sustainable agriculture, the backbone of Nigeria’s economy and driver of food security, has been the focal point.
At the anniversary event, stakeholders and beneficiaries acknowledged the Foundation’s remarkable achievements and reaffirmed its commitment to promoting sustainable agriculture and rural development in Nigeria.
Lamikanra, acknowledged the outstanding efforts of the Foundation in promoting sustainable agriculture and bolstering rural development through impactful initiatives across multiple sectors.
In her anniversary message, she emphasised the significance of celebrating the Foundation’s accomplishments over the past two decades, stressing that since its establishment, the Foundation has witnessed the transformative power of collective effort and unwavering commitment to its cause.
Yarub Al-Bahrani, a Board Member while speaking said that over the past two decades, the BATN Foundation has remained unwavering in its commitment to advancing sustainable agriculture and rural development across Nigeria.
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According to him, “our impact resonates in every corner of this great nation, touching the lives of countless individuals and communities in all 36 states of the Federation and the FCT,”
He highlighted the Foundation’s broad impact and expressed optimism that these efforts would significantly contribute to shaping a bright future for Nigeria.
Oludare Odusanya, the General Manager BATNF while addressing the Foundation’s significant achievements, affirmed that the organization remains committed to its mission.
He said with a focus on empowering rural communities and smallholder farmers, the Foundation looks forward to another 20 years of creating lasting positive change in rural Nigeria.
“As we look forward to another 20 years of creating lasting positive change, we remain dedicated to empowering rural Nigeria, driving positive change and shaping a brighter future for all Nigerians.
According to him, “As we celebrate the 20th anniversary of the British American Tobacco Nigeria Foundation (BATNF), we are immensely proud of the impact we have had on rural development in Nigeria. Over the past two decades, BATNF has been dedicated to fostering sustainable agriculture and empowering rural communities, particularly smallholder farmers, across the country.
“Our commitment to driving positive change remains unwavering. Through our various initiatives and programmes, we have not only improved the livelihoods of countless individuals but also contributed to the growth of sustainable agricultural enterprises and empowered the next generation of agricultural leaders,” he said.
Emmanuel Audu, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture who represented the Lagos state Commissioner of Agriculture, expressed his appreciation for the Foundation’s collaborative spirit, and value for the partnership with the BATN Foundation.
According to him, “The entire food system in Lagos state and the transactional value is estimated at N7 trillion is expended every year in food production and that is why we cherish the partnership with the BATN Foundation that strengthens, rendering support through our value chain actors. Whether in crop production and livestock, the footprint has been felt in the state and we treasure the support.”
Also, Professor Babatunde Kehinde, the Vice Chancellor, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), commended the Foundation for its dedication to sustainable agriculture and rural development.
“I congratulate BATNF on its 20-year celebration, focusing on the rural opulence of any community shows a concern for the future of such community that is why I believe the BATN Foundation is energizing our society as Nigerians and therefore we should all support the foundation to make more impact.”
Dr. Olabode Adetoyi, a former commissioner for Agriculture, Ekiti state commended BATN Foundation for their tireless effort improving the livelihoods of farmers in Nigeria and providing crucial support and empowerment to drive food security.
He urged other companies to emulate and follow the lead of the foundation in supporting the nation’s farmers, ensuring a more food-secure future for all Nigerians.
However, the highlight of the celebration was the launch of the Mobile App.
It would be recalled that the Foundation, established in November 2002, has facilitated the transition from subsistence farming to sustainable commercial agriculture in Nigeria.
This transition has not only improved the livelihoods of numerous Nigerians but also fostered the development of sustainable agricultural enterprises and transformed rural smallholder farmers into agro-entrepreneurs.
Source: Daily Independent
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