AFAN Gets New Leadership in Enugu as Aneke Emerges Chairman
A new executive council has emerged for the Enugu State branch of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), with Sir Emmanuel Emeka Aneke elected as Chairman, succeeding Mr Romanus Eze, in a peaceful transition that stakeholders have described as a turning point for the association.
The election, which took place during the State Delegates Conference, was conducted through a consensus arrangement unanimously adopted by delegates, signaling unity and renewed direction within the body.
Other members of the newly constituted executive include Comrade Lazarus Orekeyi as Secretary, Chief Emma Okenwa as Deputy Chairman, alongside three Vice Chairmen representing the senatorial zones: Mr Louis Okolo (East), Mr Boniface Eze (North), and Mr Anthony Okoro Obasi (West). Mr Obasi Bernard Chukwuma was named Legal Adviser, among other officers drawn from the 17 local government areas of the state.
Chairman of the Electoral Committee and Deputy National President of AFAN, Chief Daniel Okafor, explained that the consensus model was deliberately adopted to foster inclusiveness and stability within the association.
“We gave delegates the option to choose a process that would ensure unity, and they overwhelmingly embraced consensus. This outcome reflects the collective will of farmers in Enugu State,” Okafor stated.
In his goodwill message, the Enugu State Commissioner for Agriculture and Agro-Industrialisation, Dr Patrick Ubru, represented by Mr Theophilus Ivo, charged the new leadership to prioritise proper data collation of farmers across the state to enable effective distribution of government support.
“We expect the new executive to build a credible database of genuine farmers. This is critical for ensuring that government interventions reach the right beneficiaries,” he said.
The Commissioner further disclosed that no fewer than 40,000 farmers are expected to benefit from agricultural inputs in the current farming season. He added that the state government has also made provisions for mechanised farming through tractor hiring services and participation in farm estate schemes spread across the 260 political wards.
“Farmers must position themselves to take advantage of these opportunities. The government is committed to transforming agriculture into a viable economic driver,” he added.
In his acceptance speech, the newly elected Chairman, Sir Emmanuel Aneke, expressed gratitude to members for the confidence reposed in him, describing the peaceful conduct of the conference as a reflection of a “new AFAN.”
“This is a new chapter for AFAN in Enugu. We will run an inclusive administration where no farmer is left behind in accessing available opportunities,” Aneke assured.
He called on members to remain active and committed, while commending the state government for creating an enabling environment for agricultural growth.
The outgoing Chairman, Mr Romanus Eze, in his remarks, praised the national leadership of AFAN for repositioning the association and addressing past challenges.
“The reforms introduced by the national body have strengthened AFAN at all levels. I am confident the new leadership will build on this foundation without facing the difficulties we encountered,” Eze noted.
In recognition of his contributions, Chief Okafor announced Eze’s elevation to the position of National Organising Secretary of AFAN.
The conference was attended by officials from the national secretariat, including the Chairperson of AFAN in the Federal Capital Territory – the only female state chair in the country, as well as Mrs Ngozi Nwakeze, representing the Federal Ministry of Agriculture in the state.
Security presence was also ensured, with representation from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps through its Agro Rangers unit, underscoring the importance of safeguarding agricultural investments and stakeholders.
Observers say the emergence of the new leadership marks a significant step toward strengthening farmers’ coordination and enhancing agricultural productivity in Enugu State.
EDITOR
Sam Udekwe is a journalist working in the News and Current Affairs department, Enugu State Broadcasting Service (ESBS) Enugu. He is well trained in all genres of journalistic venture.
Mr Sam read Mass Communication, graduating all with Distinction in National Diploma, Higher National Diploma and Postgraduate Diploma at IMT, Enugu and Madonna University, Okija, Anambra state, as well as M.Sc Mass Communication at National Open University of Nigeria.
He is the immediate past NUJ Chairman, Enugu state.
samowailo@gmail.com
