By Ajibola Adedoye
The BATN Foundation celebrates its 20th anniversary, recognizing its extraordinary contributions to sustainable agriculture and rural development through meaningful activities across many sectors.
The anniversary celebration, held at the Civic Centre in Lagos, brought together stakeholders, partners, and beneficiaries to reflect on the Foundation’s journey and achievements.
The BATN Foundation, which was founded in November 2002, has helped Nigeria’s transition from subsistence farming to sustainable commercial agriculture. This shift has not only improved the livelihoods of many Nigerians, but it has also accelerated the growth of sustainable agricultural enterprises and transformed rural smallholder farmers into agro-entrepreneurs.
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In her anniversary statement, Adebisi Lamikanra, Chairperson of the Board at the BATN Foundation, stressed the significance of commemorating the Foundation’s achievements over the past two decades.
She noted that from its inception, the Foundation has seen the transforming power of collective work and unshakable devotion to its mission.
Lamikanra stated, “Our focus has been on sustainable agriculture, the backbone of Nigeria’s economy and a driver of food security. We accomplish this by assisting smallholder farmers and providing them with the essential tools and resources for success.
“”The BATN Foundation has been constant in its commitment to promote sustainable agriculture and rural development in Nigeria for the past two decades. Our impact reverberate in every corner of this wonderful nation, impacting the lives of countless individuals and communities in all 36 states of the Federation and the FCT,” reflected Yarub Al-Bahrani, a Board Member.
Al-Bahrani emphasized the Foundation’s broad influence and expressed hope that these efforts will help shape a brighter future for Nigeria.
Mr. Emmanuel Audu, Permanent Secretary to the Commissioner of Agriculture, Lagos, expressed his appreciation for the Foundation’s collaborative spirit and value for the partnership with the BATN Foundation, saying, “The entire food system in Lagos state, and the transactional value is estimated at 7 trillion is expended every year in food production, and that is why we cherish the partnership with the BATN Foundation that strengthens, rendering support through our value chain Whether in crop output or animals, the impact has been seen throughout the state, and we appreciate the help.”
Professor Babatunde Kehinde, Vice Chancellor, Federal University of Agriculture in Abeokuta (FUNAAB), congratulated the Foundation for its dedication to sustainable agriculture and rural development, stating, “I congratulate BATNF on its 20-year celebration, focusing on the rural opulence of any community shows a concern for the future of such community, that is why I believe the BATN Foundation is energizing our society as Nigerians, and therefore we should all support the foundation to make more impact.” Dr Olabode Adetoyi, the former Commissioner for Agriculture in Ekiti state, praised the BATN Foundation for their hard efforts to improve farmers’ livelihoods in Nigeria and provide critical support and empowerment to drive food security.
He asked other firms to replicate and follow the foundation’s lead in assisting our country’s farmers, ensuring a more food-secure future for all Nigerians.
Addressing the Foundation’s considerable achievements, General Manager Oludare Odusanya stated that the organization remains devoted to its objective.
He noted that the Foundation, which focuses on strengthening rural communities and smallholder farmers, is looking forward to another 20 years of bringing about long-term constructive change in rural Nigeria.
“As we mark the 20th anniversary of the British American Tobacco Nigeria Foundation (BATNF), we are enormously proud of our effect on rural development in Nigeria.
Over the last two decades, BATNF has worked to promote sustainable agriculture and empower rural communities, particularly smallholder farmers, across the country.
“”Our commitment to achieving good change is unshakable. Through our many efforts and programs, we have not only improved the lifestyles of countless people, but also contributed to fostering the development of sustainable agriculture firms and empower the next generation of agricultural leaders.
The launch of the Mobile App was a highlight of the celebration.
The BATN Foundation’s 20th anniversary celebration was a success, bringing together industry stakeholders, partners, and beneficiaries to recognise the Foundation’s remarkable achievements and reaffirm its commitment to promoting sustainable agriculture and rural development in Nigeria.
As the Foundation prepares for another 20 years of enduring positive change, it is committed to empowering rural Nigeria, generating positive change, and forging a brighter future for all Nigerians.
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