Professor of Agricultural Economy with the University of Ilorin, Opeyemi Arinde, has encouraged maize farmers in Nigeria to adopt climate- resilient crop varieties to mitigate risk and boost crop production.

She also advocated access to credit for small scale farmers in the country for Nigeria to attain food sufficiency and force than rising inflation.

Delivering the 251st inaugural lecture of the University of Ilorin titled “the risk of not taking risk in Agricultural innovation and gender inclusivity,” Arinde said adoption of climate – resilient crop varieties will not only stabilise farmers’ income especially in regions prone to climate-related risk but will also contribute to food and poverty reduction.

She however decried that wide gender disparity in Agricultural activities have remain a key hindrance to agricultural advancement calling for gender -inclusive agricultural research that will recognise.

“Promoting gender- inclusive agricultural research to ensure equitable access to resources and technology is imperative. Recognising the distinct roles and preferences of male and farmers and involving both genders in the selection and development of agricultural innovations is crucial to attaining the goals of self -sufficiency in crop production. Efforts should be made to empower women in agriculture, improve their access to resources, and engage them in decision-making process,” she said.