“Silent Warriors Rise”: Monilari Crowned Akoni Oodua, Champions Farmers as Nation Builders
It was a moment charged with pride, culture, and conviction inside the ancient palace of the Ooni of Ife in Ile-Ife, as Farmer Ambassador Dr. Abayomi Olugbenga Monilari rose to speak, following the honour bestowed on him as the Akoni Oodua Agbeparapo Leadership Award recipient.
Clad in an elegant kaftan with a distinct Aso Oke ensemble, the Ondo State Chairman of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN) and President of the Ondo State Farmers’ Congress stood before royalty, dignitaries, and fellow honourees. Yet, beyond the prestige of the title, it was his message that defined the moment.
“Your Royal Highness. I’m deeply grateful,” he began, his tone steady yet emotional, acknowledging the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, whose palace remains a symbol of cultural authority and honour.
Rather than bask in personal glory, Dr. Monilari redirected attention to the farming community.
“This recognition is a testament to collective effort,” he said, paying tribute to mentors, colleagues, and farmers whose labour sustains the nation.
“We are the unrecognized warriors that hold the peace of the world.” he declared.
In a country where agriculture is often underappreciated, Monilari reframed the narrative—describing farmers not merely as food producers, but as custodians of peace and stability.
“Let’s promote peace through zero hunger,” he urged.
Dr. Monilari’s journey into agriculture began early, inspired by his father’s career as a manager at Araromi Rubber Estate. That early exposure ignited a lifelong passion, leading him to pursue formal education in agriculture and eventually earn a Doctor of Science (D.Sc.) degree in the field.
After graduation, he founded MAO Farms, building hands-on experience in agribusiness while contributing to food production and rural development. Over the years, he has undergone extensive training in agricultural extension services, value chain development, and capacity building, including programs with We Serve Humanity Network (WESHNET) and other organizations.
A trained Extension Agent, he specializes in agricultural methodologies and value chain systems, equipping farmers with modern tools and techniques.
Beyond agriculture, Dr. Monilari is also an associate member of the Institute of Chartered Mediators and Conciliators, reflecting his commitment to conflict resolution—particularly in addressing farmers-herders challenges. He is further recognized as an Eminent Peace Ambassador, underscoring his dedication to sustainable development and social harmony.
Widely respected in Ondo State’s agricultural sector, Dr. Monilari holds several strategic leadership roles. He serves as:
President, Ondo State Farmers’ Congress
Chairman, All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Ondo State Chapter
Board Chairman, Niger Delta Practising Farmers’ Foundation
Member, Ondo State Agriculture and Food Security Committee
Member, Ondo State Strategic Committee on EUDR Compliance
As a full-time farmer, he manages over fifty out-growers, contributing significantly to agricultural productivity and sustainability.
His visionary thinking is reflected in numerous policy proposals submitted to the Ondo State Government, covering areas such as rice production, land banking, soil health, urban and organic farming, and long-term agricultural development strategies.
During his speech, Dr. Monilari emphasized what he described as the “hidden treasure” in agribusiness—an untapped opportunity capable of transforming lives, particularly for women and youth.
“Let us search for it,” he urged, calling on a new generation to embrace agriculture not just as a means of survival, but as a pathway to prosperity.
For him, the award marks not a peak, but a platform for greater impact—promoting agricultural education, empowering communities, and advancing food security.
“I dedicate this honour to my family and community,” he said.
In a brief interview, his wife, Mrs. Comfort Olayemi Monilari, a Director of Teacher Development, expressed gratitude for the recognition.
“I thank God for sparing his life to witness this great honour,” she said. “He has always been committed to impacting lives. I will continue to support and pray for his success.”
Despite his demanding career, Dr. Monilari maintains a balanced personal life, enjoying sports and music while raising a family.
As applause echoed through the palace, it became clear that the moment transcended ceremony.
It was a declaration—one that places agriculture at the heart of national survival and prosperity.
Dr. Monilari’s concluding words captured that vision:
“Together, we can cultivate a prosperous future for food security and sustainability.”
And as those words lingered in the air, they carried a powerful message beyond the palace walls—that the true strength of a nation lies in the quiet resilience of its farmers, the “silent warriors” who feed the world.
