From Monday 13th to Wednesday 15th January 2025, the Foundation convened its members at its Abuja headquarters for the 2025 Strategic Planning, Capacity Building, and Refresher Meeting. This pivotal gathering marked the first major event since the organisation transitioned from the Syngenta Foundation, setting a strong foundation for the year ahead.
Unveiling the 2025 Strategic Theme
The meeting opened with an inspiring address by the Country Team Lead, Timothy Azakere, who commended the dedication of the Foundation’s team and partners for their efforts in 2024. He introduced the strategic theme for 2025: “GROWING TOGETHER: Nurturing People, Planet, and Prosperity”.
Azakere explained that the theme reflects the vital interconnectedness of farmers, the environment, and economic growth. It reaffirms the Foundation’s commitment to promoting sustainable agricultural practices that empower smallholder farmers to drive food security, climate resilience, and economic stability. Highlighting the ambitious goals for the year, he stated:
“In 2025, we aim to reach 85,000 more farmers, expand our Farmers’ Hub network to new regions, enhance post-harvest infrastructure, and invest in solutions that address climate and economic pressures.”
Highlights of the Training and Planning Sessions
The event was packed with insightful sessions designed to align the team’s efforts with the 2025 strategic goals. Key discussions included:
- Strategic Plan for 2025: Participants reviewed the year’s roadmap and identified actionable steps to achieve targets.
- Farmers’ Hub and Seed Hub Operations: Extensive training covered Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and data capturing tools such as eHub templates.
- Practical Workshops: Hands-on sessions on trial and demo establishment, as well as nursery establishment for vegetables, rice, and tree plants.
- Partner Insights: OCP Africa facilitated sessions on their strategic approach and the role of attendees in advancing shared goals.
One significant announcement was the renaming of Field Officers to Business Support Service Officers (BSSOs), reflecting expanded roles and responsibilities within the Foundation’s model to drive prosperity for smallholder farmers across Nigeria.
Voices from the Field
The energy and enthusiasm at the event were palpable, as reflected in interviews with some of the attendees:
Jeremiah Beyioku, BSSO (North Central, Abuja):
“The experience has been exciting. I’ve gained deeper insights into the organisation’s vision and mission. I’m motivated to ensure food security across the nation by applying the strategies we’ve learned.”
Jamila Shehu, BSSO (Jigawa State):
“I learned about farmers’ health and the functionality of our hubs in the community. My plan for this year is to organise training in Jigawa to improve farmers’ yields. The knowledge I’ve gained will be transferred to the farmers I work with.”
Henry Igbor, Seed Project Officer:
“This program was not just a meeting but a workshop for capacity building. I’m leaving with a renewed mindset to push my team to achieve the foundation’s goals. Kudos to the organisers for such a fantastic event.”
Energised for Success in 2025
By the close of the meeting, attendees were recharged and aligned with the foundation’s vision for 2025. The strategic insights, practical tools, and shared commitment among team members underscored the collaborative spirit encapsulated in this year’s theme, “Growing Together”. With a clear roadmap and motivated team, the Foundation for Sustainable Smallholder Solutions is poised to make a transformative impact in advancing sustainable agriculture and supporting smallholder farmers.
Stay tuned as we embark on this journey of nurturing people, planet, and prosperity!