The Delta State chapter of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN) has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Chief Aneke Ifemeni, who was the Executive Assistant to the Governor on Agriculture (Coconut Development). The association described him as a man deeply committed to advancing agriculture in Delta State.
In a condolence message, AFAN’s State Chairman, Sir Richard Odutule Asenime, highlighted Ifemeni’s love for agriculture, which was evident in his dedication to establishing a successful fish farm in his hometown, Onicha Ukwuani, Ndokwa West Local Government. This venture earned him membership in the Fish Farmers Association of Nigeria, and by extension, membership in AFAN.
Sir Asenime fondly recalled that Chief Ifemeni was appointed as the Senior Special Assistant on Agriculture by former Governor Senator Ifeanyi Okowa in 2015. He also noted Ifemeni’s instrumental role in supervising the election of the current AFAN executive committee in 2018. Furthermore, in 2020, Ifemeni served on a joint committee with AFAN and the Delta Agric and Rural Development Agency (DARDA) to develop the Farmers Support Programme (FSP), which provided critical support to small-scale farmers.
The chairman also shared that Ifemeni, a pioneer Majority Leader of the Delta State House of Assembly, generously allowed a portion of his private office bungalow to be used as the Delta AFAN Secretariat. In 2021, Ifemeni coordinated the formation of the Coconut Farmers Association, leading to the establishment of the state’s Coconut Department, where he served as the pioneer General Manager until his recent passing.
Reflecting on Ifemeni’s legacy, Sir Asenime said, “We at AFAN received the news of his untimely death with deep shock. Chief Ifemeni was a key figure in agricultural development in Delta State, playing vital roles in the growth of coconut, fish, and oil palm production. His passion for agriculture was unmatched, and his contributions will be greatly missed.”
Delta AFAN extended their heartfelt condolences to the Ifemeni family and the broader agricultural community. Sir Asenime prayed for the peaceful repose of Chief Ifemeni’s soul and strength for his family and loved ones during this difficult time.
