The Chairman of the National Palm Produce Association of Nigeria (NPPAN), Edo State Chapter, Atoe Efosa Luque, has called for renewed efforts toward revitalising the agricultural sector in Edo State, with a special focus on palm produce.

In a statement made available to The Guardian, Luque highlighted several critical issues affecting agricultural development, including a lack of proper branding and packaging of farm produce.

He said, “With the right processing methods and adherence to international standards, Edo’s palm produce can penetrate both local and global markets.

“Our products can compete anywhere in the world if properly branded and packaged.”
Luque, however, painted a stark picture of the challenges farmers face, ranging from limited access to funding and inadequate government support to the growing threat of insecurity in rural farming areas.

He emphasised that insecurity is a significant deterrent for farmers, many of whom are unable to access or work on their land safely.
“The government must take urgent steps to improve security in rural communities because without security, farmers will remain discouraged, and food production will suffer,” he advised

The NPPAN chairman also urged the government to provide financial assistance and investment in infrastructure to support small-scale farmers, noting that agriculture remains a vital pathway to economic empowerment and food security in the state.
The chairman appealed to the people of Edo State, especially the youth, to participate in agriculture, emphasising that the future of the state’s economy lies in the hands of those willing to cultivate its land.

He also commended the resilience of farmers who continue to persevere despite the many challenges they face, assuring that “your efforts are not in vain, being the backbone of our economy, and we appreciate your commitment.”

Luque, therefore, urged all stakeholders, including government agencies, private investors, and community leaders, to support local farmers and work collectively toward a more sustainable and prosperous agricultural sector in Edo State.