Nigeria Embraces Agric-tech To Boost Productivity and Secure Food Supply
Asadu Jacinta
The Nigerian government, in partnership with private sector stakeholders, is channeling investments into innovative technologies, in order to modernize and increase agricultural productivity, reducing dependency on imported agricultural produce.
A recent research from the Federal Ministry of Agriculture revealed that Nigeria’s agricultural output rose by 15% over the past year, primarily driven by the implementation of smart farming techniques. Farmers are increasingly using drones for crop surveillance and mobile applications for accessing markets, allowing them to enhance production efficiency and reduce waste.
Dr. Aisha Mohammed, Minister of agriculture has stated that,“This transition towards technology-enhanced agriculture is essential for securing food availability in Nigeria.” She also confirmed that the government is dedicated to equipping farmers with the necessary tools that would enhance both domestic and international markets.
The government has also, introduced numerous initiatives targeted at offering financial assistance to smallholder farmers. By providing low-interest loans and subsidies for seeds and fertilizers, these programs seek to make farming more attainable and lucrative for the many individuals who comprise a significant segment of the agricultural workforce.
Nonetheless, challenges persist. The sector continues to grapple with threats posed by climate change, as unpredictable weather patterns hinder crop yields. More so, insecurity has significantly affected agricultural operations, adversely affecting food production and escalating prices.
However, in spite of these difficulties, experts remain hopeful about the prospects for agriculture in Nigeria. “With ongoing investment in technology and infrastructure, Nigeria has the potential to emerge as a prominent agricultural hub in Africa,” remarked agricultural economist Dr. Samuel Adetola.
