May was a month of deep engagement and high-impact activity for The Foundation, as we worked alongside smallholder farmers to build resilience, enhance productivity, and strengthen partnerships across multiple states in Nigeria. From targeted farmer trainings to large-scale outreach events and strategic collaborations, our team of hub managers, technical officers, and partners delivered actionable support across key communities.
Enhancing Knowledge Through Farmer Trainings
Across Kaduna, Bauchi, Nasarawa, and Ogun States, The Foundation hosted a series of practical training sessions focused on Good Agronomic Practices (GAP), agrochemical application, and access to agricultural inputs. In Kaduna, our hubs at Shika, Zuntu, and Pampaida collaborated with Lion Seal Industries Ltd and Rainbow Agro Science to deliver hands-on trainings on agrochemical use and proper knapsack sprayer handling. In total, 216 male farmers participated, while Pampaida saw a strong turnout of 35 female and 27 male farmers—reflecting growing gender inclusion.
Additional trainings took place in:
- Rafin Zurfi, Bauchi State – 22 male farmers trained on the safe and effective use of herbicides and insecticides.
- Anene Community, Lafia LGA, Nasarawa State – 137 farmers (81 females, 56 males) attended GAP training sessions using SeedCo/Saro products, with some making on-the-spot input purchases.
- Adedotun Alabede, Ogun State – 20 farmers received training on yield-enhancing practices and were linked to the Konadun Hub for follow-up support.
- Otu Oseyi Agric Services Centre, Doma, Nasarawa State – 34 farmers (32 males, 2 females) received training and toured the rice processing facility. The community leader, Mr. Christopher Omaku, was recognised as a hub ambassador for his support.
Community Outreach & Special Events
On May 22, The Foundation partnered with FarmEazeGlobal to host a large-scale Seed Fair and Awareness Campaign in Wuna, Gwagwalada (FCT). The event drew 361 farmers (231 males, 123 females), offering them access to improved seed varieties and an introduction to hub services.
In celebration of Children’s Day, our team also visited GSS Gwagwalada, where 31 JET Club students received training on Smart Agricultural Practices for Sustainability & Food Security, in a programme supported by Patience Ukange of United People Global.
Meanwhile, in collaboration with SUCDEN and Courtyard Farms Ltd, a focused session on EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) and traceability protocols engaged 31 farmers (23 males, 8 females). Discussions emphasised the importance of sustainable practices and compliance, with strong farmer interest recorded.
Hub Monitoring & Support Services
On May 23, Country Team Lead Timothy Azakere undertook a comprehensive monitoring visit to four hubs in Ogun State: Ayetoro, Konadun, Odogbolu, and Odolewu. Key outcomes included:
- Initiation of greenhouse repairs at Ayetoro
- Demonstrations on pest control and crop rotation at Konadun
- Reinforced farmer engagement and record-keeping practices at Odolewu
Hub managers were also re-oriented on accurate data collection and the importance of farmer feedback in driving continuous improvement and sustaining partnerships with input providers like Saro Africa and Jubaili Agrotec.
Institutional Collaboration
In Oyo State, our hubs in Moniya and Ajibade welcomed a delegation from the Heineken Foundation. Joined by the Country Team Lead and hub staff, the visitors explored firsthand the transformative impact of our hub model on local farmer communities. The visit ended with fruitful conversations on potential future collaboration.
Demo Day Preview
While technically taking place in early June, the momentum of May culminated in a vibrant Field Day at Samaru College of Agriculture, hosted in partnership with BAYER SEMINIS. The event showcased high-yield tomato (ANSAL and ASILLA) and cabbage (AMPHION) varieties, drawing participation from 120 farmers (109 males, 11 females) who benefited from expert demonstrations by Bayer technicians and The Foundation’s team.
May Impact Summary
| Farmers Trained or Engaged | 1,013+ |
| Female Participants | 285+ |
| Youth Participants (Students) | 31 |
| Key Events & Trainings Conducted | 14+ |
| Partners Engaged | 10+ |
Looking Ahead
As we move into June, The Foundation remains committed to building strong, knowledge-driven farming communities through our growing network of hubs and strategic partnerships. May’s achievements underscore the value of collective effort in driving agricultural transformation—one farm, one farmer, and one community at a time.
