In a bold move to reinforce trust and improve the effectiveness of agricultural interventions, the Kwara State Government has inaugurated a 7-member Interim Farmers’ Representative Committee. The committee, unveiled at the State Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development in Ilorin, is expected to act as the official liaison between the government and farming communities, especially as the new planting season approaches.

According to the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Afees Alabi, the formation of the committee is more than symbolic — it is a strategic action to boost transparency, streamline the delivery of inputs, and ensure that genuine farmers benefit directly from state-supported agricultural programs.

“This committee will verify beneficiaries, curb diversion of resources, and work closely with enforcement bodies to uphold integrity in our interventions,” Dr. Alabi emphasized.

Members were carefully selected based on grassroots involvement, agricultural experience, and demonstrated commitment to the sector. The committee also reflects a gender-inclusive approach, aligning with Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s vision of empowering women in agriculture.

Speaking on behalf of the committee, Mallam Abdullahi Ahmed expressed gratitude and pledged unwavering dedication to fairness, equitable resource distribution, and farmers’ welfare.

“We are here to serve with transparency and integrity, ensuring no farmer is left behind,” he affirmed.

The Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Funke Sokoya, described the committee as a timely intervention that will improve sector-wide coordination and increase the efficiency of government-led agricultural initiatives. She urged the committee to act diligently and uphold the confidence placed in them.

Also present at the ceremony were the Senior Special Assistant on Agriculture, Alhaji Musa Mohammed, the State Project Coordinator of ACReSAL, Alhaji Samsudeen Aregbe, and other key players in Kwara’s agricultural ecosystem.

This development signals Kwara State’s proactive stance in supporting farmers and reinforcing the success of rural development and food security programs.

🔍 Key Objectives of the Committee:

• Act as the recognized voice of farmers in government-related activities
• Verify legitimate beneficiaries of agricultural inputs and interventions
• Prevent diversion or mismanagement of farm inputs and support
• Strengthen community feedback loops to improve transparency
• Foster collaboration with law enforcement and other stakeholders
• Promote inclusive participation, especially for women and youth in agriculture