By Richard Akintade, Osogbo
The Vice-Chancellor of the Osun State University, UNIOSUN, Professor Odunayo Clement Adebooye, has said that the most populous African country can only be freed from the challenge of skyrocketing food prices only if interest of women farmers, women sellers and women producers is factored into national policy.
Professor Adebooye made this known on Thursday during the maiden Osun State University 2023 Women’s Day Celebration, held at the Olagunsoye Oyinlola Auditorium, Osogbo main campus.
The Vice-Chancellor noted that it appeared that women farmers were sustaining Nigeria and their interest was not taken into consideration in national planning
Speaking on previous policies on Agricultural development in Nigeria, Professor Adebooye stressed that the policies did not achieve their desired targets saying “because we neglected the key roles of the vibrant small-holder, resource poor and voiceless women farmers.
“Let women voice count in agriculture, and you will see a turn-around in a short-while,” he suggested.
“I see our women as superheroes, who deserve to be celebrated and acknowledged. I see the need to continue to motivate them and to always shield them against any form of vulnerability, abuses, or harassment.
“I see the need for increased empowerment for women through sound all-tier education and skill acquisition,” the VC said.
While delivering her lecture on the theme “Embracing Equity,” Professor Olabisi Aina emphasized the need for men to allow women to achieve their potential.
The professor of sociology insisted that women are not competing with men, but they needed to be given equal opportunity to strive, given the role for them to perform.
While speaking at the colourful and well attended programme, the state governor’s wife, Erelu Ngozi Adeleke, emphasised the important roles women play in the development of the family and society.
Erelu Adeleke stressed that women have responsibilities to address the declining moral values in society, hence the need for them to be given leadership positions.
The Osun first lady, also urged Nigerian women in authority to rise, champion and protect the rights and privileges of women in the country, pointing out that women’s rights need to be brought to par with that of men to ensure equality and justice.
The Osun governor’s wife commended the UNIOSUN for organising such a programme, saying “it is a timely programme in support of women’s development”.
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