Minister Seeks Digital Tech Adoption to Improve Agriculture, Boost Food Security
The Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, is urging for swift implementation of digital technologies within Nigeria’s farming industry to enhance food output, control escalating costs, and lessen the nation’s reliance on imported foods.
Speaking on Thursday in Abeokuta at the Ogun Tech Forward Innovation & Startups Roundtable session, Tijani stressed that Nigeria’s vast arable land and large population could only be effectively harnessed through technological intervention.
He warned that without embracing innovation, traditional farming practices would remain inefficient and expensive, putting food security at risk.
“Technology innovation has already contributed 16 to 18 per cent, but we are aiming for 21 per cent. We need to introduce our technology into agriculture to produce enough food to feed ourselves
"Technology is essential for countries such as Nigeria to engage in effective agricultural practices. Although we possess extensive lands, without technological assistance, we will not be able to perform optimally," the minister stated.
Tijani pointed out that the ongoing increase in food costs coupled with the nation's reliance on foreign currency for importing cereals that could be cultivated domestically is not sustainable.
He highlighted that utilizing technologies like mobile applications, drones, sensors, and data analysis has the potential to revolutionize Nigerian agriculture through precise farm management and offering up-to-date information about soil quality, pest management, plant vitality, and security against unauthorized access.
He argued that implementing these technologies would improve farming efficiency and sustainability, resulting in increased crop yields, reduced production expenses, and eventually, cheaper food options for people in Nigeria.
The minister additionally argued for widespread inclusive innovation throughout the nation, warning that Nigeria’s tech-oriented destiny should not be determined solely by a select number of metropolitan areas.
He stated that the federal government will back developing technology hubs, particularly in regions such as Ogun State, to guarantee widespread involvement at the community level within the digital economy.
Tijani asserted, "It’s not enough to let only a handful of cities drive innovation. All regions of Nigeria, from towns to remote areas, should participate in this digital transformation. By involving more individuals, our nation will grow increasingly resilient."
However, Tijani disclosed that the federal government will support Ogun Tech Hub’s plan to generate 300 jobs via business process outsourcing. This effort is part of a larger strategy to convert Nigerian states into 'talent hubs'.
He stated, "Without investing in our community members, we'll continue relying on external solutions. It’s essential to foster an environment where indigenous concepts can develop into thriving enterprises."
The minister also urged for incorporating new technologies like artificial intelligence, robotics, and drones into vital industries, notably agriculture. Additionally, they promoted using generative AI in education to facilitate personalized and widely available learning throughout different communities.
During his speech, Adekunle Durosinmi, who leads the Ogun Tech Community, urged the federal government to offer targeted assistance to speed up the development of the state’s digital sector.
He encouraged the minister to help set up an effective innovation center along with a lasting secretariat aimed at fostering local start-ups.
Durosinmi emphasized the significant part Ogun State plays within Nigeria’s economic structure, referring to it as a key industrial center and vital transportation route connecting Lagos to the broader nation and Western Africa.
He stated that since 57 percent of its estimated 7.1 million inhabitants will be of working age, Ogun State has significant potential for driving digital advancement, generating employment opportunities, and fostering youth growth.
"Ogun State has a distinctive opportunity to emerge as a national frontrunner in technology and entrepreneurship. With over 29 tertiary educational institutions—the highest number within the nation—we are inherently suited to be a hub for innovation," he stated.
Durosimi mentioned that since its inception in February 2022 and official registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission, the Ogun Tech Community has initiated several programs focused on enhancing digital literacy, boosting cybersecurity awareness, and fostering local technology involvement.
He observed that the community had formed 19 active groups, encompassing roles such as developers, mentors, women in technology, and agritech experts, all collaborating to foster inclusive progress within the tech sector.
He emphasized the community's support for the National Digital Economy and E-Governance Bill 2024, highlighting that its initiatives, organizational framework, and promotion efforts aim at enhancing digital literacy, aiding startups and small businesses, advancing e-government services, and encouraging ethical digital advancements.
He emphasized that working together with the government, industries, academic institutions, and the technology sector is essential for reaching the country’s developmental objectives.
He showed gratitude for Tijani’s attendance at the roundtable, viewing it as a strong sign of the federal government’s dedication to comprehensive development.
“We want to see such solutions replicated across the country. To accelerate this, we need your support. Ogun urgently needs a fully functioning physical secretariat and, importantly, a dedicated innovation hub to nurture and grow even more startups,” he said.
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