The federal government has urged the media, civil society organizations (CSOs), and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to actively promote policies and programs aimed at modernizing Nigeria’s agricultural sector and ensuring food security.
Speaking at a media engagement in Abuja, Executive Secretary of the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria (ARCN), Professor Garba Hamidu Sharubutu, highlighted the government’s commitment to digital transformation, mechanization, and research-driven agricultural growth in line with Agenda Four of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
One of the key innovations introduced by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, the Executive secretary indicated is the National Electronic Extension Platform (NEEP), coordinated by the Federal Department of Agricultural Extension
Describing it as a game-changer, Professor Sharubutu stated that NEEP provides real-time farmer support, Evidence-based decision-making tools, and seamless knowledge transfer from research to farmers
“With NEEP, we are breaking past physical barriers. Agricultural extension must evolve, and Nigeria is now in an era where technology drives innovation in farming practices,” he emphasized.
To further enhance knowledge dissemination, the Federal Government launched ARCN TV and Radio in 2021, offering farmers digital access to modern agricultural techniques and best practices.
Additionally, the Electronic Technology Transfer (ETT) platform, an interactive e-portal, now connects Farmers with research experts and extension officers, stakeholder across various commodity value chains, Real-time support via telecom-based value-added services
As part of its community-driven approach, the Federal Government has mandated the National Agricultural Research Institutes (NARIs) and Federal Colleges of Agriculture to establish Adopted Villages & Agricultural Research Outreach Centers – Authoritative hubs providing farmers with training, advisory services, and modern farming inputs and Adopted Schools – Bringing agricultural education and innovations closer to rural communities.
Continuing, the Secretary pointed out that the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security has also established Nigeria’s first Agricultural Research Museum, a one-stop hub showcasing commercially viable research findings from agricultural institutions nationwide, to consolidate research efforts.
Professor Sharubutu urged the media, CSOs, and NGOs to amplify the government’s agricultural initiatives, stressing the sector’s direct impact on national food security and economic stability.
“Agriculture is the backbone of our nation. We need collaborative efforts to ensure farmers, stakeholders, and the general public fully understand and leverage these groundbreaking innovations,” he concluded.
With these bold reforms and digital advancements, Nigeria is set to revolutionize its agricultural sector, bridging the gap between research and practice while ensuring sustainable food security for all.