Women farmers across Nigeria have raised alarm over the deepening challenges confronting their participation and productivity in the agricultural sector, lamenting systemic neglect, insecurity, poor infrastructure, and lack of access to tools, training, and funding. Despite their significant contributions to national food production, many women in farming say they remain sidelined due to outdated societal beliefs that undervalue women’s roles in the workforce. They argue that the perception of agriculture as a male-dominated field has resulted in limited attention and support for female-led farming initiatives. Aolat Idowu-Agbelekale, the Chief Executive Officer of Arcom Treasures in an interview with Daily Independent said that the challenges facing farmers in general are enormous, but women bear an extra burden due to cultural bias and lack of a conducive farming environment. “People still see agriculture as men’s business. As a result, women farmers are overlooked and under-supported,” she said. Idowu-Agbelekale, who is also a coconut processor and a founding member of the National Coconut Producers Processors and Marketers Association of Nigeria (NACOPPMAN), sad that security remains a serious concern, that female farmers, particularly those in remote or conflict-prone areas, face heightened vulnerability. “Reports of banditry, kidnapping, and violent attacks on farmlands are frequent, with women often the worst hit. In many cases, these attacks have resulted in fatalities or the abandonment of farms entirely, further reducing food supply and income for rural households “Infrastructure challenges compound the problem. Poor road networks have led to staggering post-harvest losses as produce often rots before it reaches markets. A recent incident involving trailers transporting perishable crops from the North to Lagos ended in huge losses after the vehicles were stuck for days on dilapidated highways. Carrots, cucumbers, onions, and potatoes all decayed in transit, amounting to billions of naira in waste. She noted that this has become a daily reality and one that threatens their very survival. Speaking further she said that female farmers also struggle with access to modern agricultural tools and techniques, stressing that while farming globally has evolved with mechanization and new technologies, many women in Nigeria still rely on basic, outdated implements like hoes and cutlasses. “Most have no access to training or information on improved farming practices and post-harvest management, making their work more labor-intensive and less productive. According to her, financing is another critical issue, access to loans and grants is limited, and when available, they often come with high interest rates or bureaucratic bottlenecks. “A recent tragedy involved a pepper farmer who committed suicide after failing to repay a loan. The case highlights growing concerns about mental health in farming communities, especially as farmers face increasing pressure amid poor yields and economic uncertainty. “Agricultural insurance, which could provide a safety net, is virtually nonexistent for most farmers. Many are unaware of insurance options, and those who are informed say the premiums are unaffordable. Additionally, most smallholder farmers lack collaboration with reliable off-takers, meaning they bear the burden of production and sales alone—a task that often proves overwhelming. She called for urgent intervention by the government and relevant agencies. The CEO of Arcom Treasures also stressed the need for meaningful implementation of agricultural policies and communiqués that prioritize farmer welfare, particularly for women, she further demand improved rural infrastructure, fair access to grants and incentives, and protection against illegal levies imposed by touts on major highways. She urged investment in training programmes that promote Global Good Agricultural Practices, as well as the appointment of credible and competent individuals to oversee agricultural agencies and programs. These, she believes, will help restore trust in government initiatives and ensure that public funds are used to support real development on the ground. Speaking further, she advocated for reduced foreign dependency through the promotion of local production and value addition. “We must plant what we eat and wear what we produce. Women farmers go beyond just tilling the soil—they add value to our economy. Without farmers, there is no nation.”