Gwagwalada: Smallholder farmers in Gwagwalada have pushed for the inclusion of their communities’ climate priorities, the security of their farmlands, and improved farm mechanization in the council’s budget. Speaking at the official unveiling of the Climate Participatory Budget Proposal at the council’s secretariat, the farmers emphasized the need for improved seedlings to address challenges posed by climate change.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the event was organized by the Development of Educational Action Network (DEAN) Initiative under its project on Strengthening Climate Adaptation through Participatory Budgeting in the Gwagwalada Area Council. The initiative was funded by People-Powered, a global organization focused on Inclusive Democracy. Gwagwalada is the first council in Nigeria to incorporate a participatory initiative in its budget preparation, facilitated by DEAN.
The farmers highlighted issues such as irregular rainfall, droughts, floods, and temperature fluctuations, which have made it increasingly difficult for their crops to thrive. Ayuba Zubairu, one of the farmers, stressed the urgency of obtaining improved seeds for maize, guinea corn, and yam to withstand the impacts of climate change in their communities. He noted that traditional maize crops now face destruction from pests due to shortened growing periods.
Zubairu also called on the government to provide more farmland to local farmers, as some existing plots have been repurposed. Rakiya Mamman, a woman leader from Paiko Community, echoed the need for government support, particularly in providing farm inputs like fertilizers and pesticides to bolster resilience against climate change. Mamman expressed concern over the lack of fertilizer support this year and urged timely government interventions to ensure successful harvests.
Muhammad Saba, the Council’s Focal Person on Open Government Partnership (OGP) Steering Committee, highlighted the significance of citizen participation in budget preparation for successful implementation. As the Gwagwalada Council Secretary, Saba stated that the draft proposal would undergo further deliberations with management, assuring that the farmers’ priorities would be considered in the council’s 2026 budget.
Semiye Michael, Executive Director of DEAN, emphasized the need for collective efforts to address the climate crisis impacting farmers, as it affects the entire community’s food supply. He praised Gwagwalada for pioneering this initiative and encouraged the council to ensure farmers’ needs are reflected in the 2026 budget, fulfilling their duty to serve the people. Michael congratulated the council for democratizing the budgetary process and involving citizens in climate change efforts.
Source: News Agency of Nigeria