By: Amadi Vincent Uzoma
The British American Tobacco Foundation (BATNF) has outlined the reasons behind its support for smallholder farmers by providing them with the necessary tools and resources for success.
Adebisi Lamikanra, Chairperson of the Board at the BATN Foundation, spoke at the Foundation’s 20th-anniversary event held at the Civic Centre in Lagos, where stakeholders, partners, and beneficiaries gathered to review the Foundation’s journey and achievements. She highlighted the Foundation’s focus on sustainable agriculture, which is crucial for Nigeria’s economy and food security.
Stakeholders and beneficiaries at the event praised the Foundation’s accomplishments and reaffirmed its dedication to promoting sustainable agriculture and rural development in Nigeria. Lamikanra recognized the Foundation’s significant efforts in enhancing sustainable agriculture and advancing rural development through effective initiatives in various sectors.
In her anniversary message, she emphasized the importance of celebrating the Foundation’s achievements over the past two decades, underscoring the transformative power of collective action and strong commitment to its cause since its establishment.
Board Member Yarub Al-Bahrani stated that the BATN Foundation has remained steadfast in promoting sustainable agriculture and rural development across Nigeria for the past twenty years. He highlighted the Foundation’s extensive reach across all 36 states of the Federation and the FCT, affecting numerous individuals and communities and contributing to a promising future for Nigeria.
General Manager Oludare Odusanya reaffirmed the organization’s dedication to its mission, focusing on empowering rural communities and smallholder farmers. He expressed optimism about continuing to make a positive and lasting impact on rural Nigeria over the next 20 years.
Emmanuel Audu, representing the Lagos state Commissioner of Agriculture, commended the Foundation for its collaborative approach and partnership value, highlighting the impact on the state’s food system and its supportive role in enhancing value chain actors in crop production and livestock sectors.
Former Commissioner for Agriculture, Ekiti State, Dr. Olabode Adetoyi, commended the BATN Foundation for its continuous efforts to improve farmers’ livelihoods and enhance food security by providing essential support and empowerment. He called for other companies to follow the Foundation’s example in supporting farmers for a more food-secure future for all Nigerians.
The celebration featured the launch of a Mobile App as a significant highlight. The Foundation, established in November 2002, has facilitated the shift from subsistence farming to sustainable commercial agriculture in Nigeria, resulting in improved livelihoods, sustainable agricultural enterprises, and the transformation of rural smallholder farmers into agro-entrepreneurs.
