A coalition of women farmers in Borno State has urged the government to invest in climate- and agroecology-friendly initiatives that support rural communities, ease the movement of farm produce, and strengthen the agricultural value chain across the state.
Blessing Ifemenan, Programme Advisor at ActionAid Nigeria, made the appeal during an event titled “Strengthening the Network of Actors for the Promotion of Agroecology,” organised by the Centre for Advocacy, Transparency and Accountability Initiative (CATAI) with support from ActionAid over the weekend.
She explained that the initiative aims to build a coordinated movement for sustainable farming, improve access to markets for agroecological products, and advocate supportive government policies.
According to her, “The purpose of this initiative to strengthen the network of actors for the promotion of agroecology is to train women farmers on climate-resilient, sustainable agriculture practices, especially as climate change increasingly impacts the sector.”
She added that the initiative also encourages farmers to shift away from harmful agricultural practices and adopt organic farming, organic pesticides, and smart agriculture techniques that protect the environment.
The coalition noted that limited exposure to sustainable farming practices—such as soil management and water-efficient techniques—has made smallholder women more vulnerable to unpredictable rainfall, prolonged droughts, and recurrent flooding.
Speaking on behalf of the group, Aishatu Isa said climate challenges are becoming more visible in communities like Bama, Konduga, and Gwoza, where crop yields are declining.
“Our biggest challenge is the lack of basic agroecological knowledge necessary for adaptation,” she said. “Many women still rely on traditional farming methods that are no longer effective. We need training on soil health, improved seeds, composting, and simple irrigation techniques.”
Another farmer, Sa’adatu Sani, expressed concern over the absence of early-warning systems and advisory services that could help guide planting decisions and reduce crop failures.
“We want government and partners to engage more directly with communities,” she said. “Climate change is accelerating, but support for women farmers remains insufficient.”
She commended CATAI and ActionAid for organising the training, describing it as timely, and urged government agencies and development organisations to create favourable conditions for women farmers, whom she described as vital to household food security.
Ibrahim Abdulkadir, Project Lead for the Strategic Partnership Agreement II (SPA2), said the engagement aims to strengthen the network of agroecology advocates in the region.
“This platform provides learning opportunities, and we focus on solutions that are environmentally sustainable, economically feasible, and socially just,” he said.
Abdulkadir stressed that expanding women’s knowledge of agroecology would enable them to produce more diverse, nutritious, and culturally appropriate foods, reducing reliance on external markets and building more resilient local food systems.
He called for improved extension services in rural areas, emphasising that empowering women farmers with practical, climate-responsive skills is essential to improving food production and resilience, especially in a region affected by insurgency and climate shocks.
He urged government bodies, development partners, and research institutions to prioritise community-based training that equips women with the critical skills needed to sustain farming and strengthen household food security.
