The British American Tobacco Nigeria Foundation (BATNF) has initiated a project in Oke-Ako, Ekiti State, focused on the Sustainable Development of Maize Micro-Enterprise Farmers.
This landmark effort aims to bolster food security and uplift rural livelihoods by empowering over 100 smallholder farmers.
The initiative provides these farmers with enhanced inputs, comprehensive agronomic training, and crucial market access, establishing a more sustainable and commercially viable maize value chain.
A distinguished assembly of public and private sector leaders, community representatives, and agricultural stakeholders gathered for the June 17, 2025, flag-off ceremony.
The Executive Governor of Ekiti State, Biodun Oyebanji, underlined the State Government’s dedication to agricultural development as a cornerstone of economic transformation, with his Chief of Staff, Mr. Niyi Adebayo, representing him at the event.
Other notable attendees included Kabiyesi Mrs. Adebayo, the Regent of Oke-Ako; Mr. Abdulraham Yinusa, Group Managing Director of Odu’a Investment Company; Mr. Owolabi Salami, Chairman of SwagCo; and the Honourable Commissioner for Agriculture, Mr. Ebenezer Boluade.
At the event, Mr. Oludare Odusanya, General Manager of BATN Foundation, described the initiative as “a transformative journey” beyond ceremonial fanfare.
“This project is anchored on a simple but powerful vision: to boost maize productivity, promote climate-smart practices, and enable sustainable livelihoods for our farmers. We believe smallholder farmers are not just beneficiaries of development but drivers of it,” said Mr. Odusanya.
As part of the program, participating farmers will receive improved maize seed varieties that offer higher yield potential and greater resilience to changing climate conditions. They will also benefit from targeted agronomic training and extension services designed to embed innovative, sustainable farming practices into their daily operations.
In addition, the initiative will provide access to financial support and market linkages, enabling farmers to move from subsistence-level production to more commercially viable enterprises.
To ensure lasting impact, the project will establish community-driven support systems to sustain progress beyond the project’s duration.
BATN Foundation emphasised that the project is tailored to address farmers’ urgent challenges, including rising input costs, climate volatility, and limited financial access, with practical, long-term solutions.
The Foundation also acknowledged the crucial roles played by its technical partners. SwagCo, praised for its innovation in agricultural enterprise, developed the framework to guide the implementation.
At the same time, Westlink will serve as the on-ground execution partner, ensuring efficient delivery and measurable impact.
The Odu’a Investment Company was commended for its strong commitment to regional development through agricultural empowerment.
“This collaboration is a testament to what is possible when the public sector, private enterprise, and development organisations work hand-in-hand. Together, we are sowing seeds of transformation,” added Odusanya.
Addressing the smallholder farmers directly, Odusanya said: “You are the true champions of this project. Your hands shape our food systems. No Farmers, No Nation. Great Farmers, Great Nation. Your participation and dedication will catalyse agricultural transformation in Oke-Ako and across Ekiti State.”
The event concluded with a reinforced appeal for ongoing investment in rural businesses and inclusive collaborations. These initiatives are crucial for uplifting local communities and fostering agricultural advancements.
Source: Independent
Image Credit: National Insight
