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Tag: BATN Foundation

  • BATN Foundation commissions solar-borehole across rural communities

    BATN Foundation commissions solar-borehole across rural communities

    In a resounding demonstration of its commitment to community development and climate-resilient infrastructure, the BATN Foundation has commissioned a 20,000-litre capacity solar-powered borehole in the Ifelodun Muslim Area of Oluyole Local Government, Ibadan, Oyo State.

    The borehole project, officially unveiled in the presence of government dignitaries, traditional leaders, local government authorities, and residents, marked another significant stride in BATN Foundation’s drive to support underserved communities with sustainable access to clean water and sanitation, key elements in achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6).

    Constructed with five water dispensing taps, a water management kiosk, four 300W solar panels, and a submersible pump encased within a protective area, the borehole is engineered for long-term sustainability. A manually operated pump has also been installed to provide an alternative water source during extended periods of low sunlight.

    Speaking at the ceremony, Mrs. Odiri Erewa-Meggison, Board Director of BATN Foundation, emphasised the project’s deeper significance beyond infrastructure: “Water is life. Access to clean, safe water is not a luxury; it is a fundamental human right. This project represents our belief that no one should be left behind, especially when it comes to the most basic human need.”

    She added that the Foundation’s strategic investments in clean water solutions reflect its broader mission to build resilient, healthy communities.

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    “This borehole is one of over 110 solar-powered facilities we have constructed across Nigeria, impacting thousands of rural households with safe, renewable water access. It’s not just about water; it’s about dignity, it’s about public health, and it’s about creating opportunities for people to thrive.”

    The solar-powered borehole in Ifelodun is expected to serve more than 5,000 residents, significantly reducing the daily burden, especially for women and children, who previously traveled long distances to fetch water. By integrating solar-powered technology, the project not only reduces dependence on fossil fuels but also lowers the long-term cost of water access, providing an environmentally friendly solution tailored for rural sustainability.

    In his remarks, the Honourable Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Hon. Seun Ashamu, lauded the Foundation’s intervention, noting that this kind of public-private partnership is critical in addressing the infrastructural gaps in rural areas, especially in climate-sensitive sectors like water.

    Chairman of Oluyole LGA, Engr. Akeem Olatunji also expressed appreciation to BATN Foundation for choosing the Ifelodun Muslim community, describing the intervention as a transformative gesture that addresses both the immediate and long-term water needs of its people.

    Beyond access to water, the BATN Foundation continues to make critical interventions in agriculture and economic empowerment across Oyo State.

    In 2024 alone, the Foundation trained and equipped 200 smallholder vegetable farmers across Akufo and Ajeja communities in sustainable dry-season farming techniques. Through these initiatives, over 330,000 smallholder farmers have been empowered by the 36 states of the federation and the FCT.

    “The goal is to strengthen the entire ecosystem around rural development. By giving people the tools whether water or agricultural inputs, we’re enabling productivity, health, and self-reliance,” Erewa-Meggison stated.

    The commissioning event featured the symbolic turning on of the borehole, ribbon cutting, and group photographs with community members, local leaders, and government officials. Residents of the Ifelodun Muslim Area turned out in their numbers, expressing heartfelt gratitude for what many described as a “life-changing” intervention.

    The Foundation urged the community to take full ownership of the borehole and preserve it for future generations.

    “Sustainability begins with stewardship. Protect it. Preserve it. Pass it on,” Erewa-Meggison said.

    With today’s commissioning, the BATN Foundation renews its commitment to bridging the resource divide in rural Nigeria, one sustainable solution at a time.

  • Foundation’s solar borehole boosts clean water access for Ibadan community

    Foundation’s solar borehole boosts clean water access for Ibadan community

    The BATN Foundation has commissioned a 20,000-litre solar-powered borehole in Ifelodun Muslim Area of Oluyole Local Government, Ibadan, providing over 5,000 residents with sustainable access to clean water.

    Unveiled at a well-attended ceremony last week, the facility, the Board Director of BATN Foundation, Odiri Erewa-Meggison, said, marks a significant milestone in the Foundation’s ongoing drive to improve rural infrastructure and align with Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6) — clean water and sanitation for all.

    Equipped with five water dispensing taps, a management kiosk, four 300W solar panels, and a submersible pump, the system, she explained is designed for long-term durability. It also includes a manual hand pump for backup during periods of low sunlight — a move praised for ensuring reliability even in unpredictable weather.

    “Water is life. Access to clean, safe water is not a luxury; it is a fundamental human right. This project represents our belief that no one should be left behind, especially when it comes to the most basic human need,” Erewa-Meggison said.

    She added that the initiative was part of a broader vision to foster health and dignity through renewable, community-focused interventions. 

    “This borehole is one of over 110 solar-powered facilities we have constructed across Nigeria, impacting thousands of rural households with safe, renewable water access. It’s not just about water; it’s about dignity, it’s about public health, and it’s about creating opportunities for people to thrive.”

    Government representatives hailed the intervention as a model for addressing rural challenges. The Oyo State Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Hon. Seun Ashamu, described the project as “a vital example of how public-private partnerships can fill infrastructure gaps in climate-sensitive sectors like water.”

    Also speaking, Chairman of Oluyole Local Government, Engr. Akeem Olatunji, commended the Foundation for its thoughtful choice of location. 

    “This is a transformative gesture that meets both immediate and future water needs of our people. It will relieve women and children from the hardship of walking long distances in search of water,” he said.

    Residents of the Ifelodun Muslim Area turned out in large numbers to witness the symbolic ribbon-cutting and water flow demonstration, hailing the intervention as “life-changing.”

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    Beyond water infrastructure, the Foundation, Erewa-Meggison noted, is making bold strides in agriculture and rural empowerment. In 2024 alone, it trained and equipped 200 smallholder vegetable farmers in Akufo and Ajeja communities on sustainable dry-season farming, contributing to its record of empowering over 330,000 farmers across Nigeria’s 36 states and the FCT.

    “The goal is to strengthen the entire ecosystem around rural development. By giving people the tools, whether water or agricultural inputs, we’re enabling productivity, health, and self-reliance,” she noted.

    The ceremony concluded with a message of responsibility and sustainability as the Foundation’s Board Director urged the community members, stating, “Sustainability begins with stewardship. Protect it. Preserve it. Pass it on.” 

    With the commissioning of the project, the BATN Foundation reaffirmed its dedication to bridging the rural infrastructure gap in the country through sustainable, community-driven solutions.

  • BATN Foundation lifts smallholder farmers in Ebonyi

    BATN Foundation lifts smallholder farmers in Ebonyi

    In a significant stride toward transforming Nigeria’s rural agricultural landscape, the British American Tobacco Nigeria Foundation (BATNF) has inaugurated the second phase of its impactful rice farming support program in Ebonyi State.

    The event, centered on the distribution of vital farming inputs, highlights the Foundation’s commitment to strengthening food systems, promoting sustainable livelihoods, and empowering smallholder farmers across Nigeria.

    In 2024, BATN Foundation made remarkable headway by supporting 400 smallholder rice farmers across four communities in the State — Eketube Enyigba (Abakaliki LGA), Ndiokeda (Izzi LGA), Ogwulangwu (Ohaozara LGA), and Nduikbi (Ebonyi LGA).

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    These farmers received targeted capacity building through hands-on training, demonstration plots, and field days designed to promote improved agronomic practices.

    Now, in 2025, the Foundation’s efforts are intensifying with a strategic intervention that saw the distribution of 1,000 kg of high-quality rice seeds, 6,000 kg of fertilizer, herbicides, pesticides, and other essential inputs to 200 farmers, selected from the initial cohort for this planting season. This timely support aimed to cultivate at least 20 hectares of rice.

    Looking ahead, BATN Foundation plans a third phase in 2026, envisaged as an enterprise development initiative. This phase aims to support 100 farmers with inputs to cultivate 100 hectares of rice, coupled with market linkage services to ensure sustainable income streams. Such steps are crucial in creating resilient farming communities capable of weathering climatic and market challenges.

  • BATN Foundation partners Odu’a to lift small holder farmers in Southwest

    BATN Foundation partners Odu’a to lift small holder farmers in Southwest

    The Batn Foundation is proud to announce its strategic partnership with Odu’a Investment Company Limited’s agribusiness arm, SWAgCo, to strengthen agriculture in South-West Nigeria and empower smallholder farmers through scalable, sustainable, and inclusive initiatives.

    Unveiled at the 43rd Annual General Meeting of Odu’a Investment Company Limited recently, this groundbreaking partnership is part of SWAgCo’s N10 billion agribusiness joint venture designed to industrialise agriculture and unlock the full economic potential of the South-West region.

    A key initiative under this collaboration is the N65 million maize production projects at the Oke-Ako agribusiness hub in Ekiti State. This programme, currently underway, includes a N32 million revolving grant and aims to support 100 smallholder farmers with access to credit, quality inputs, training, and structured markets. With support mechanisms designed to enhance productivity, promote farmer cooperation, and increase rural incomes.

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    “At the BATN Foundation, we believe that strategic partnerships are critical to achieving sustainable development goals and driving inclusive growth in Nigeria’s agricultural sector. Our collaboration with Odu’a’s SWAgCo is a bold step toward industrialising agriculture and uplifting the livelihoods of smallholder farmers who form the backbone of our food systems,” said Mr. Oludare Odusanya, General Manager of the BATN Foundation.

    “By combining resources, expertise, and shared vision, this partnership will scale up agricultural productivity, strengthen local value chains, and create long-term economic opportunities for rural communities. We are excited to be part of this transformative journey to build a resilient agricultural future for the region and beyond.”

    In attendance at the MoU signing were Board members of the Odua Investment company limited including Otunba Bimbo Ashiru, Group Chairman, Odu’a Investment Company Limited, Mrs. Folusho Olaniyan, Group Independent Director, Odua Investment company Halimat Shuaibu, Executive Director, BATN Foundation, Mr. Oludare Odusanya, General Manager, BATN Foundation, Dr. Theo Adewale Onadeko, CEO SWAgCo, Representatives from state governments across the SouthWest region and agricultural stakeholders.

    This partnership aligns with the BATN Foundation’s mission to empower smallholder farmers, drive food security, and promote inclusive agricultural development. As more collaborative investments take shape under the SWAgCo initiative, the Foundation remains committed in pursuing efforts and partnerships geared at strengthening the rural agricultural system and more importantly the smallholder farmers.

  • BATNF partners Akwa-Ibom to distribute 2,000 chickens, empowering smallholder farmers

    BATNF partners Akwa-Ibom to distribute 2,000 chickens, empowering smallholder farmers

    The BATN Foundation (BATNF), in collaboration with the Akwa Ibom state government and implemented by Eco-Lead Imperial Engineering and Global Services Ltd., has successfully distributed 2,000 five-week-old Noiler chickens to 100 smallholder poultry farmers in the state. 

    Launched on December 15, 2024, at the Akwa Ibom Agricultural Development Project Premises (AKADEP), this initiative aims to empower rural farmers and enhance food security in the region.

    Targeting vulnerable groups such as women—especially widows, youth, and individuals with disabilities, the project provided each participating farmer with 20 Noiler birds, a 25kg bag of poultry feed, and 150g of multivitamin sachets. 

    The initiative not only seeks to create a sustainable source of protein through egg and meat production but also aims to improve local chicken breeds via cross-mating practices.

    During the flag-off ceremony, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Rosemary Ubia, represented Honorable Commissioner Effiong Offor. 

    She announced transportation support of N5000 for each beneficiary, highlighting the state government’s commitment to alleviating the challenges faced by farmers. 

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    “This initiative aligns perfectly with the ARISE agenda of Governor Umo Eno, which aims to boost agricultural production in Akwa Ibom State,” she remarked.

    Beneficiaries were selected through a collaborative effort involving the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, the Poultry Farmers Association of Nigeria (PAN) in Akwa Ibom State, and the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA), ensuring that support reached those most in need.

    General Manager of the BATN Foundation, Oludare Odusanya, expressed pride in the initiative, stating, “We are proud to support this project, which addresses immediate food security needs while empowering local farmers with the tools and resources necessary for sustainable livelihoods. 

    “This initiative represents a significant step in fostering economic empowerment among smallholder farmers across the country. It also reflects our commitment to economic development and enhancing the lives of individuals in the communities we serve.”

    Director of Veterinary Services in Akwa Ibom State, Teddy Essien, commended the BATN Foundation for the program, noting its potential to promote rural agriculture and improve local poultry species. 

    He encouraged beneficiaries to prioritise the health and productivity of the birds entrusted to them.

    On his part, Director of Livestock and Husbandry, Namokwo Orok, emphasised that the project aligns with the state government’s agricultural revolution agenda, stating, “This partnership is timely and critical for the advancement of agricultural practices in our communities.”

    Odusanya further disclosed that the main objectives of this poultry project included enhancing food security and nutrition by providing a sustainable protein source for local communities, equipping women with practical skills for poultry production, and fostering gender equality and social inclusion. 

    The initiative, he reiterated, aimed to empower women and youth, creating equal opportunities in agriculture while improving livelihoods and income-generating prospects for rural women.

    He added that the BATN Foundation remains committed to supporting sustainable agricultural practices and improving the livelihoods of rural communities across Nigeria saying this initiative represents a significant step toward achieving these goals and fostering economic empowerment among the country’s smallholder farmers.

  • Foundation awards UNILORIN graduates N1.5m each in Agripreneur Programme

    Foundation awards UNILORIN graduates N1.5m each in Agripreneur Programme

    The BATN Foundation has awarded N1.5 million each to four exceptional graduates from the University of Ilorin (Unilorin) in its 2024 Graduate Agripreneur Programme.

    The event, held on the varsity’s campus, Faculty of Agriculture, Sasakawa Extension Hall, followed a rigorous selection process where eight innovative project proposals were presented with four outstanding graduates ultimately selected as winners to support their agricultural venture.

    The initiative, according to the foundation, aims to empower graduates with entrepreneurial skills and opportunities in the agricultural sector where each will receive grants, mentorship, and support from industry experts to ensure the successful implementation and growth of their ventures to propel innovation, sustainability, and food security in the country.

    The four winners awarded include Mustapha Ibrahim who presented a proposal on the Tomato Awakening Project (TAP), Olajire Adekunle Sherif on Catfish production, Oluwadare Ogunmonye for Maize production, and Akinboye Anuoluwapo on scaling up his tomato paste production.

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    The event welcomed the General Manager of British American Tobacco Nigeria Foundation (BATNF), Oludare Odusanya, a key partner in the project who reiterated the Foundation’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and sustainable development in Nigeria through initiatives like the Graduate Agripreneur Programme.

    “The Graduate Agripreneur Programme is a testament to our dedication to nurturing young talents and promoting innovation in agriculture,” he said.

    “We believe in the potential of these graduates to transform the agricultural landscape and drive economic prosperity.”

    Odusanya explained the winners were chosen based on their innovative project proposals, commitment to sustainable agricultural practices, and potential for scalability.

    A recipient of the grant for Tomato Paste Production, Akinboye Anuoluwapo expressed gratitude on his selection, noting, “This award will enable me to scale up my tomato cultivation project and contribute to food security in Nigeria. I am grateful for the support and mentorship provided through this programme.”

    Speaking also at the event, Prof. Olubunmi Abayomi Omotesho, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), representing the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole (SAN), highlighted the significance of the programme.

    “We are delighted by the achievements of our graduates in the BATN Foundation Graduate Agripreneur Programme,” Prof. Omotesho said.

    “This initiative aligns with our university’s mission to produce graduates who are not only academically sound but also equipped with practical skills to drive economic growth. We congratulate the winners and look forward to their impactful contributions to the agricultural sector.”

    Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, Prof. Oluyemisi Bolajoko Fawole, noted the Graduate Agripreneur Programme is a significant step towards achieving this goal, fostering entrepreneurial spirit among its graduates.

    He added that the institution remains dedicated to providing opportunities for its students to excel and make meaningful impacts in their chosen fields.

    Others representing the university were Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research, Technology & Innovation), Professor Adegboyega Adisa Fawole; Registrar, University of Ilorin, Mr. Mansur Adeleke Alfanla; University Librarian, Dr. Kamaldeen Omopupa alongside other stakeholders from the varsity’s Faculty of Agriculture like Dean, Dr. Olusegun Adebayo Ojumoola and Sub-Dean Mrs. Rahmat Ahmed, Faculty Officer.

    Heads of Departments present included the Head of the Department of Animal Production, Prof. Foluke Sola-Ojo; the Head, of the Department of Aquaculture and Fisheries, Prof. M. I. Abubakar; representing the Head, of the Department of Agronomy, Dr. Kehinde O. Affinnih; Head, Department of Agricultural Extension and Rural Development, Dr. Kemi F. Omotesho, Head, Department of Crop Protection, Dr. O. Ahmed and Head, Department of Forest, and Wildlife Resources, Dr. Nusirat A. Sadiku.

    With strategic alliances and partnerships with academic institutions, industry stakeholders, and government agencies, the BATN Foundation seeks to further increase its influence in the future.

    By expanding its programme, the foundation also hopes to support sustainable development and entrepreneurship, giving young Agripreneurs in Nigeria greater opportunities.

  • BATN Foundation celebrates 20 years of positive change in rural Nigeria

    BATN Foundation celebrates 20 years of positive change in rural Nigeria

    British American Tobacco Nigeria Foundation (BATN) said it has dedicated to empowering rural Nigeria, investing a remarkable ₦4 billion in community development projects in the last 20 years. 

    The Foundation also noted that it has made tangible impact in the lives of rural smallholder farmers, women, and youth, promoting economic growth, and improving livelihoods.

    One of the most notable achievements of BATN Foundation is the empowerment of over 300,000 smallholder farmers.

    Through capacity-building programmes and inputs support, these farmers have gained the knowledge and resources necessary to grow their farms and improve their livelihoods.

     BATN Foundation’s focus on good agronomic practices has not only enhanced the quality of their produce but also increased their yields, leading to greater economic stability.

    BATN Foundation’s reach extends across all 36 states of the federation, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), with over 300 community projects implemented to date.

    These projects span various program themes and value chains, demonstrating the Foundation’s versatility and commitment to addressing diverse community needs.

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     The impact of these projects is evident in the number of beneficiaries reached – over 1.7 million people have been supported through various interventions and projects.

     Access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene is a fundamental human need, and BATN Foundation has made significant strides in this area.

     The installation of 105 solar-powered borehole facilities, each with a 20,000-liter capacity, has provided clean water for countless communities.

     This initiative has not only improved health and well-being but also reduced the burden of water-borne diseases.

    Collaboration has been a cornerstone of BATN Foundation’s success, with partnerships and collaborations established with over 100 key stakeholders, including NGOs, government agencies, private sector organizations, and other industry stakeholders.

     These partnerships have enabled the Foundation to leverage resources, expertise, and networks, amplifying its impact and reach.

     Mrs. Adebisi Lamikanra, Board Chair, BATN Foundation said: “As we celebrate two decades of transformative impact, our focus on agriculture, the backbone of Nigeria’s economy, has been exploited by supporting smallholder farmers and equipping them with the tools and resources they need to succeed. Let us continue to nurture the seeds of change we’ve sown, and our unwavering commitment to empowering rural Nigeria be the catalyst for a brighter future for generations to come.

    ” The Foundation’s commitment to excellence is reflected in its governance certification, having been awarded the ISO 9001:2015 – Quality Management Certificate.

     The Foundation has been recertified three times which demonstrates the Foundation’s adherence to international standards of operation, ensuring accountability, transparency, and effective management of resources.

     Oludare Odusanya, General Manager of BATN Foundation, reflects on the organization’s 20-year journey, distilling its mission into a concise statement: “Over the past two decades, we have been privileged to partner with rural communities in Nigeria, witnessing first-hand the power of knowledge acquisition and economic empowerment.

    ‘’This journey has been incredibly fulfilling, and we take great pride in the positive impact we’ve made thus far. “As we look to the future, we remain steadfast in our commitment to our vision of becoming a leading catalyst for sustainable agriculture in Nigeria.

    ‘’We are confident that by empowering smallholder farmers, achieving food security, and driving economic growth, we will continue to sow the seeds of change that will benefit generations to come.”

    BATN Foundation’s 20-year journey has been marked by significant achievements, impactful projects, and a commitment to empowering rural Nigeria.

     As it looks to the future, the Foundation remains dedicated to its mission, poised to continue making a positive difference in the lives of millions.

  • BATN foundation launches charity challenge

    BATN foundation launches charity challenge

    British American Tobacco Nigeria Foundation (BATN), steadfast in its mission to foster sustainable development in rural Nigeria, has unveiled a Charity Challenge, inviting applications from local NGOs to collaborate in uplifting communities.

     The initiative aims to nominate and support deserving charity organizations making significant strides in societal impact. 

    As part of the challenge, BATN Foundation pledges to donate one million naira to the selected local NGO.

    Individuals are encouraged to nominate local charity organizations and NGOs that have demonstrated a positive influence on society. 

    Through the initiative, BATN Foundation seeks to strengthen the network of organizations dedicated to transforming rural Nigeria for the better.

    NGOs interested in participating must meet the following criteria -registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) or relevant agencies, proven experience in areas such as poverty reduction, support for the elderly, rural community service, sustainable development, and education, non-affiliation with public or government officials and a strong reputation for charitable work, devoid of negative publicity.

    Interested NGOs are required to submit detailed proposals, including, a brief profile highlighting key achievements, proof of registration with the CAC and a one-page document or short video outlining the proposed use of grant funds.

    Shortlisted NGOs will undergo further evaluation to ensure alignment with BATN Foundation’s values and objectives. 

    Finalists will undergo due diligence to verify legal status and reputation.

    General Manager of BATN Foundation, the Oludare Odusanya emphasized the importance of NGO collaboration in empowering rural Nigeria. 

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    He said:! “We are dedicated to empowering rural Nigeria and recognize the crucial role NGOs play in achieving this goal. Through strategic partnerships, we aim to amplify our impact and support initiatives that directly address the needs for a sustainable future.”

    Interested NGOs must submit proposals outlining qualifications, project plans, and expected outcomes. 

    The Foundation’s governance team will internally review all submissions until the winner is announced.

    The application deadline is May 17th, 2024, and submissions should be made via CharityChallenge-CallForNGOs.

    BATN Foundation remains committed to partnering with strong and experienced NGOs to build a prosperous and sustainable future for all.

  • BATN Foundation equips Lagos smallholder fish farmers

    BATN Foundation equips Lagos smallholder fish farmers

    The British American Tobacco Nigeria Foundation (BATN Foundation) in partnership with the Lagos State Agricultural Development Authority (LSADA) has donated 20 fifty-kilogram smoking kilns to beneficiary farmers and agribusinesses in support of the livelihoods of smallholder farmers in Lagos state.

    With the support of the BATN Foundation, the Lagos State Agricultural Development Authority also facilitated several weeks of intensive capacity building and established four demonstration sites for practical training for over 200 beneficiaries cutting across agricultural zones (Agege, Ojo, Ikorodu and Ibeju-Lekki) in Lagos state. 

    This initiative is programmed to enhance the productivity of the farmers and equip them to successfully overcome the challenges prevalent in the aquaculture industry.

    The handing-over ceremony of the smoking kilns to the beneficiary, held at LSADA office, Oko-Oba Agege, had in attendance government officials, fish farmers’ groups, and cooperative societies across the state.  

    Elizabeth Tagbenu, a beneficiary of the initiative stated that participating in the training has provided her with new knowledge and real-life scenarios to increase her output. 

    She also mentioned how the smoking kiln donation will help her business and boost her productivity.

    The partnership which commenced in 2018 aims at building the capacity of fish farmers under the Fingerlings to Fork Project and the donation of smoking kilns is part of the foundation’s effort to prevent post-harvest loss and support the socio-economic development of smallholder farmers in the state. 

    Oludare Odusanya, the General Manager, BATN Foundation in his remark at the handing over ceremony, said that the foundation’s long-standing assistance to farmers has revealed the importance of not only imparting optimal agricultural practices for enhanced fish production but also ensuring market access and empowering them to enhance the value of their commodities. 

    This approach, according to him, is essential for building resilience against price volatility.

    He said: “In our long-term work to supporting farmers, we have seen that beyond simply imparting best practices for enhancing fish yield, it is critical to give them market access and the tools they need to add value to their product and withstand fluctuations in prices.”

    In her keynote address, Ruth Abisola Olusanya, the Commissioner of Agriculture for Lagos state, who was represented by Aramide Gansallo, Director, Agribusiness, Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture, encouraged the fish farmers benefiting from the initiative to maximize this opportunity for successful fish processing in the state. 

    She reiterated that the project plays a pivotal role in supporting the Lagos State government’s on-going agricultural policy to guarantee food sufficiency and security across significant agricultural value chains.

    Encouraged by the success recorded so far by the initiative, the Commissioner called upon other corporate organizations and foundations to collaborate with the state in its pursuit of sustainable food security, mirroring the exemplary efforts of the BATN foundation.

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    Another beneficiary, Abdullateef Adekunle, expressed his heart-felt gratitude to the foundation for providing him with the smoking kiln saying this invaluable support would not only enhance his business but would also open new avenues for growth. 

    “With this equipment, I can now process and preserve my fish more efficiently, ensuring better market opportunities and increased income for my family.”

    The BATN Foundation since its inception in 2002 has supported the federal and state governments in agricultural development programmes and has invested over N2 billion in supporting rural smallholder farmers. 

    It has reached over 1.3 million beneficiaries and it is projecting to double this figure in the next 10 years through increased support to smallholder farmers across 36 States and the FCT, Abuja.

  • BATN Foundation charts pathwaysfor sustainable agriculture

    BATN Foundation charts pathwaysfor sustainable agriculture

    By Afolabi Idowu

    With the theme “Turning Challenges into Opportunities: Creating Sustainable Strategies and Pathways for Smallholder Farmers in the Agrifood System,” Agribusiness Dialogue Session, a biennial initiative of the British American Tobacco Nigeria Foundation represents a significant opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions about the future of smallholder farmers in the agricultural sector in the country.

    The Agribusiness Dialogue Session is targeted at reviewing government and private sector strategies aimed at enhancing the prospects of smallholder farmers and their families and fostering a sustainable future. Since its inception in 2015, the Foundation has successfully hosted similar events in 2017, 2019, and 2021. The 2023 edition was hosted in partnership with Enterprise Development Centre (EDC) of the Lagos Business School and was meant to build on the success of the 2019 collaboration.

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    This year’s Agribusiness Dialogue Session is particularly timely, as it seeks to address the challenges faced by smallholder farmers, transforming them into opportunities for sustainable growth and prosperity within the agrifood system. To drive the discussion and reach an actionable resolution, the event featured expert-driven plenary sessions, a keynote address, insightful breakout sessions, and a dynamic fireside chat.

    Speaking at the event, Ololade Johnson-Agiri, Executive Director, British American Tobacco Nigeria Foundation (BATNF) stated that since the inception of the Foundation in 2002, the Foundation has remained committed on sustainable agriculture development and the improvement of livelihoods of smallholder farmers, their families, and communities.