FCT Rural Women Vital to Food Security, Development – Aipoh

Hilmary Aipoh, a former All Progressives Congress women leader in the Federal Capital Territory, called for sustained investment in rural women during the 2026 International Rural Women's Day symposium held in Abuja. She emphasized that women across the FCT's six area councils have played crucial roles in agricultural production and grassroots development. Aipoh stated that greater support would directly improve their livelihoods and strengthen local food systems. The former APC leader stressed that empowering rural women through agricultural support and economic opportunities is essential for more inclusive development outcomes. [1]

Event Organization Details

The symposium was organized by the Association of Wives of FCT Traditional Rulers in partnership with the FCT Women Affairs Secretariat, marking a significant milestone for rural women's participation. Aipoh highlighted the specific role of the FCT Women Affairs Secretariat in mobilizing women across communities and area councils. She described this avenue as vital for promoting inclusion and expanding their participation in various development programmes aimed at improving living conditions. [1]

Agricultural Sector Partnerships

Growtech West Africa, an international agribusiness platform, announced a collaboration with the National Agricultural Development Fund ahead of the inaugural exhibition in Lagos. This partnership aims to strengthen access to technology and investment for Nigeria's agricultural sector. The collaboration connects Growtech's network with NADF's mandate to expand access to agricultural finance and support food security. Both entities focus on strengthening productivity and value chains through irrigation, mechanization, and protected agriculture. [2]

Conference Scope and Participants

The Food Security and Sustainability Conference will bring together policymakers, investors, agribusiness leaders, researchers, and technology providers to examine future issues shaping agriculture. Topics include agricultural financing, productivity, climate resilience, and food production methods. The event features diverse stakeholders seeking to examine issues affecting the future of Nigeria's agricultural sector, including technology adoption and climate adaptation strategies. [2]

Confirmed Next Steps

While specific next steps remain undefined in the provided evidence, Aipoh expressed optimism that continued investment in infrastructure and human development would improve residents' living conditions. The report concludes by noting that empowering rural women through governance participation is expected to contribute significantly to broader national goals. [1]

Sources and further reading

• FCT Rural Women Vital to Food Security, Development – Aipoh
• Growtech West Africa, National Agricultural Development Fund partner to strengthen Nigeria’s agricultural growth, food security