22nd April 2026, Lagos Nigeria.
Over the years, many young people have actively contributed to Organic Agriculture, Agroecology and agrifood systems space. However, a significant number of these contributions
have remained unrecognized. Even among those who have had opportunities to champion agroecological and organic agriculture interventions, limited access to innovation, professional networks, mentorship, and growth opportunities continues to hinder their impact and expansion.
In response to this gap, YPARD, through the WYNA programme, is supporting youth and women in agrifood systems particularly in Organic Agriculture and Agroecology by strengthening their access to networks, capacity-building opportunities, knowledge exchange platforms, mentorships, fellowships, and participation in key networking and policy engagements. Photo left : Ezeofor Goodness poses for a photo with her product at the NOAN AGM
As part of this support, one of the WYNA fellows, Goodness Ezeofor from Nigeria, was facilitated to participate in the four-day Nigeria Organic Agriculture Network (NOAN) Annual General Meeting (AGM), Technical Workshop, and Organic Fair held in Abia State, Nigeria. The event brought together diverse stakeholders across the organic agriculture sector, including researchers, farmers, policymakers, students, development practitioners, and private sector actors committed to advancing agroecology and sustainable food systems.
Official opening: The AGM officially opened with the presence of key dignitaries, including the President of NOAN, executive members of the association, and the Vice Chancellor of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike. The opening ceremony highlighted the growing relevance of organic agriculture and agroecology in addressing food insecurity, environmental sustainability, and economic empowerment.
Organic Fair: One of the major highlights of the event was the Organic Fair, where several
participants showcased a wide range of organic products and innovations. During the exhibition, Ezeofor Goodness presented hibiscus-based organic products developed through ongoing work in sustainable agriculture and value addition. The exhibition created opportunities to engage with producers, consumers, and stakeholders within the organic agriculture value chain.
Ezeofor also shared ongoing initiatives focused on empowering youths and women through organic hibiscus farming in collaboration with YPARD. The initiative promotes sustainable livelihoods, entrepreneurship, and inclusive participation in agriculture while encouraging young people to embrace climate-smart and environmentally friendly farming practices.
“During the fair I had the opportunity to interact with representatives of the Standard Organization of Nigeria (SON) focusing on product quality, standardization, and compliance with regulatory requirements. With this interaction I am going to improve my product standards and position my brand and organic products for wider market acceptance”, Ezeofor said
Technical workshop: The event also featured a technical workshop under the theme “Harnessing Organic Agriculture and Agroecology for Sustainable Food Systems.” One of the keynote presentations was delivered by Dr. David Amudavi from Kenya on “Rethinking Food Systems: The Role of Organic Agriculture and Agroecology in Africa’s Green Transformation.” The presentation emphasized the importance of agroecological practices such as crop rotation, agroforestry, cover cropping, and reduced dependence on synthetic inputs in restoring soil fertility and improving long-term agricultural sustainability. It also highlighted the role of organic agriculture in climate change mitigation, biodiversity conservation, improved nutrition, and resilient food systems.
While at NOAN-AGM, Ezeofor had the opportunity to meet her WYNA-Mentor, Professor Nkiru Meludu who is equally an official member of NOAN. The meet and agreed session went beyond its planned intervention in that the Mentor was able to physically support Ezeofor to review her Community solution project through the event i.e. Empowering Youth and Women through Organic Hibiscus Farming upon which adjustments and improvements as well as strategies for improvement were set for a mentorship session focused on project development, professional growth, and strengthening ongoing agricultural initiatives. The session provided practical guidance and encouragement for advancing youth-led and women-focused projects in organic agriculture.
“Prof. Nkiru is like a mother to me, we met several times even beyond working hours amidst her busy schedule just to ensure that I am doing the right thing, she wants to see me better myself and the community. I am proud that through the WYNA Programme I was able to access a mentor who is helping me excel”, Ezeofor noted.
Another notable moment during the programme was the launch of The Green Gold, a publication by the NOAN Abia State Chapter. The book highlights the economic and environmental potential of organic agriculture and reinforces the need for continued investment in sustainable farming systems.
Event Closure:
The event concluded with the official handover of leadership from the outgoing NOAN President, Professor Jude, to the incoming President, Mr. Marcus. The transition reflected continuity, growth, and renewed commitment to advancing the objectives of the association and strengthening the organic agriculture sector in Nigeria.
Reflecting on the experience from the event:
Ezeofor described the AGM and Organic Fair as an impactful learning and networking opportunity that strengthened partnerships, expanded knowledge on agroecology, and reinforced the importance of youth participation in sustainable agriculture.
“I wish I had an opportunity to take part in more of such impactful events. Beyond the learning, exposure, sales during exhibition, networking, I appreciate YPARD for the opportunity to have my first Flight in my life, I will forever cherish this experience”, Ezeofor added.
SPECIAL THANKS: YPARD and Prof.Nkiru Meludu
