Jide OLOWOYO

The Sustainable Farmers Association of Nigeria (SuFAN), an affiliate of the Justice, Development and Peace Commission (JDPC) of the Catholic Archdiocese of Ibadan, has successfully concluded its 2025 Farmers’ Forum. The annual event, held on the 2nd and 3rd of December at the Igboora Zone in Ibarapa Central Local Government Area, brought together farmers, stakeholders, and agricultural enthusiasts for two days of learning, experience-sharing, and celebration.

This year’s forum focused on the theme “Land: A Fundamental and Indispensable Asset for Sustainable Agripreneurship.” The theme underscored the critical role of land in Nigeria’s agricultural transformation, highlighting its importance not only as a natural resource but also as an economic asset essential for long-term food security and rural development.

The forum provided a vibrant platform for farmers to exchange seeds, share success stories, and learn from one another about effective farming and livestock management practices. Participants also benefited from presentations and interactive sessions facilitated by Agricultural Experts and development professionals who addressed key issues affecting agripreneurship, land management, and sustainable food production.

A major highlight of the event was the special recognition of Mr. Ogunbosoye Alaba, former Head of Program, Integrated Development Program (IDP) of JDPC Ibadan. SuFAN members celebrated him for his unwavering dedication and longstanding contributions to farmers group’s formation, capacity strengthening, and advisory support. His years of service were commended as instrumental in sustaining the association’s growth and impact across rural communities.

Stakeholders present at the forum reaffirmed the importance of continuous support for smallholder farmers, emphasizing that empowering farming communities remains central to addressing poverty, boosting food production, and ensuring environmental resilience.

The two-day gathering ended with renewed commitments from farmers and partners to advance sustainable agricultural practices and strengthen collaboration for improved livelihoods.

The JDPC Ibadan, through SuFAN, continues to play a critical role in promoting community development, supporting rural farmers, and championing sustainable agriculture across Oyo State.