Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr Mohammad Abubakar, has urged farmers to explore emerging technologies to boost the export markets.
He made this call on Tuesday during the 4th Women Enterprise Alliance (WenA) conference in Abuja.
He said that Agriculture employed the largest number of the population and is supporting youths” and women to build enterprises through partnerships.
The theme of this year’s WenA Conference is “Rethinking Paradigm shift in Agriculture and initiatives to enhance food security’’.
“Agriculture is at the centre of the Nigerian Economy and has brought Nigeria out of recession in the last laps, there is no limit to what we can do in the Agricultural space.
“In line with the present administration focus, this ministry has provided so many job opportunities by providing different programs especially for women and youths in Agriculture.’’
Abubakar stressed the inexhaustible resources in Nigeria’s Agri-businesses, and added that there was no limit to what can be done in the Agricultural space.
“This is the sector employing the largest number of people today ,no other sector can surpass Agriculture.
“A cleaner and more climate resilient society for the new world order is our target; we are willing to work with everybody, especially women groups.” he added.
Mrs Aisha Babangida, Founder of WenA, said the conference was organised to highlight the importance of Agriculture and create more awareness among the population.
“As someone who believes in collaboration over competition, I am delighted to see a lot of intellectual minds ,with these our possibilities are endless .
“This year’s conference is organised to highlight the importance of Agriculture and to spread awareness among the population.
We will make significant Investment to unlock viable solutions to our Agricultural sector by working strategically with intelligence and innovation.
“I welcome all to the 4fh WenA conference where we open doors of productivity, profitability and sustainability,” she said.
Mr Valor Iduh, Senior Trade Advisor, Embassy of France while speaking on the trends and challenges faced by farmers during export said that farmers must meet certain standards and criteria’s for buyers and suppliers in other countries.
“When approaching Organisations for export business, form associations, it increases your capacity in your access to partnership and finance.
“It’s easier to come as an association of women in Agriculture, it’s easier to check associations since they are registered.
“Get recognised, participate, get certifications, and find out the license needed for your Export target market.
“Also, ensure quality control and standards, a little mistake can cause a lot of issues, start out early negotiations and payment methods before exporting your products,’’ he advised.
