Dear President Tinubu,
DEAF FARMERS NEED A LITTLE ATTENTION
Let me start this open letter with commendation on your continuing laudable efforts towards revitalising the Nigerian economy.
Your Excellency, there is no gainsaying the facts that your administration’s commitment to agricultural development, infrastructure revitalisation, and economic diversification is truly commendable. The recent increase in funding for agriculture and agricultural loans and grants is a testament to your dedication to empowering Nigerian farmers and stimulating economic growth.
As a deaf farmer myself, I am heartened by your efforts and believe that inclusive policies and initiatives will further enhance the impact of these measures, fostering a more equitable and prosperous Nigeria for all.
Your Excellency, I want you to know that deaf farmers in Nigeria face significant barriers in accessing agricultural loans and grants, hindering their ability to participate fully in the agricultural sector.
Your Excellency recently announced increased funding for agriculture and agricultural loans and grants, but federal programmes like this rarely benefit the deaf community. To truly make a difference, it would be more meaningful and beneficial if the Federal Government dedicates a minimum of 5% of these grants and loans specifically for deaf farmers, without age barriers.
Securing land is the most expensive aspect of agricultural enterprises in Nigeria, posing a significant barrier for deaf farmers. To address this, the Federal, State, and Local governments can establish a land grants scheme, providing deaf farmers with access to affordable land. This scheme can offer grants or long-term loans with flexible repayment plans, allowing deaf farmers to purchase up to 50 hectares of land over a 10-year period.
This initiative would empower deaf individuals to become landowners, enhance their livelihoods, and contribute to Nigeria’s agricultural growth.
As a deaf farmer myself, I have seen firsthand the potential for growth and employment. Currently, I employ 4 deaf individuals on my farm, but with sufficient funding, I could expand to hire 20 more. This would not only improve the livelihoods of these individuals but also foster a sense of community and belonging.
To address these challenges, it is essential to establish accessible loan and grant programmes, provide training on deaf culture and accessibility for agricultural officials, and offer free training for deaf individuals in effective farming and farm management practices. Furthermore, accessible funding can lead to job creation within the deaf community.
In conclusion, deaf farmers in Nigeria face significant barriers to accessing agricultural loans, grants, land and training.
However, by providing accessible loan and grant programmes, training agricultural officials on deaf culture and accessibility, offering free training for deaf individuals, and establishing a land grants scheme, we can create a more inclusive and equitable agricultural sector.
It is hightime the Federal, State Governments, and Central Bank of Nigeria took action to support deaf farmers towards promoting food security, economic growth and social inclusion.
Together, we can build a brighter future for all”.
Yours in the positive struggles to revive Nigeria.
Chief (Dr) William Olubodun (Ph.D)
Patron, Ogun State Association for the Deaf
