IFAJ Secretary General Visits Nigeria, Promises To Partner NAAJ And NACCIMA

The International Federation of Agricultural Journalists (IFAJ) Secretary General, Adrain Bell recently visited Nigeria, marking his 50th country visit.

During his stay, Bell met with executives of the Nigerian Agricultural Journalists of Nigeria (NAAJ), an IFAJ affiliate, and the Director General of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), Olusola Obadimu.

Bell expressed his excitement about visiting Nigeria for the first time and highlighted the importance of agricultural journalism in the country’s development.

He noted that agricultural journalism is often undervalued but plays a crucial role in promoting agriculture growth, raising productivity, and addressing environmental issues.

The IFAJ Secretary General commended NAAJ for its commitment to IFAJ membership and expressed the organisations willingness to collaborate on capacity building, idea sharing, and joint ventures.

This partnership aims to develop a capable core of agricultural journalists in Nigeria, ultimately benefiting the industry with valuable information to enhance productivity, standards, and output.

During his meeting with NACIMA Director General Obadimu, Bell acknowledged the organisations support for NAAJ and its contributions to Nigeria’s economic development.

Obadimu, however, expressed concerns about the negative economic headwinds affecting businesses in the country, particularly the impact of multiple levies and taxes imposed by federal government agencies.

Obadimu emphasized the need for reforms in Nigeria’s tax system, citing the detrimental effects of excessive taxation on businesses, leading to job losses and companies relocating to neighboring countries.

He also highlighted the issue of exporting raw materials without adding value, resulting in indirect job exports.

The visit highlights the importance of collaboration and capacity building in promoting agricultural development and addressing economic challenges in Nigeria.

By strengthening ties between IFAJ, NAAJ, and NACIMA, the organizations can work together to drive positive change and support the country’s economic growth.