Collaboration Key to Enhancing Nigeria’s Food Security
Senate President Godwin Akpabio emphasized the urgent need for collaborative efforts among the federal government, academia, researchers, financial institutions, development partners, technical experts, agribusiness investors, and farmers. This cooperation aims to convert Nigeria’s food insecurity into agricultural abundance.
Focus on Innovation and Technology in Agriculture
Speaking at the inaugural National Legislative Summit and Expo on Agricultural Universities and Institutions, themed “Unlocking the Potential of Agricultural Universities and Institutions through Cooperation and Innovation to Enhance Food Security and Job Creation,” Akpabio highlighted the event’s significance. It took place at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State.
Future Agriculture Will Be Driven by Technology
Represented by Acting Senate Majority Leader Isa Ashilu, Akpabio noted that the agriculture of the future will rely heavily on advanced methods rather than traditional tools. He identified key areas such as research, technology, mechanization, innovation, biotechnology, data systems, irrigation science, and climate adaptation as crucial for boosting productivity.
Breaking Down Institutional Barriers
Akpabio advocated for breaking down institutional barriers, calling for integrated ecosystems where governments, academia, researchers, financial institutions, and agribusiness stakeholders work cohesively. He stressed that no single sector could drive agricultural change in isolation, highlighting the need for collaborative frameworks for research and practical implementation.
Reimagining Agriculture as an Opportunity
He urged a paradigm shift in the perception of agriculture, describing it as a field ripe for innovation and profitability. By adopting modern practices, he envisions future farmers utilizing drones, artificial intelligence for crop analysis, digital irrigation systems, and greenhouse technologies.
Commitment to Food Security and Economic Stability
Akpabio reaffirmed Parliament’s commitment to enhancing food security, promoting rural development, creating youth employment, and supporting agricultural industrialization. He warned that hunger undermines national stability and productivity, arguing for Nigeria to evolve from self-sufficiency to becoming a competitive exporter.
Collaborations for Agricultural Advancement
In his statements, IITA Executive Director Simeon Efui expressed optimism for achieving significant successes through partnerships. He highlighted IITA’s role as a non-profit organization dedicated to addressing critical issues like hunger and poverty by developing agricultural technologies. Recent initiatives, including establishing 774 soil testing laboratories and focusing on youth agribusiness, exemplify their commitment to improving agricultural practices across Nigeria.
A Platform for Strategic Engagement in Agriculture
During the summit, Senate Committee Chairman on Agricultural Universities and Institutions, Sharafadeen Ali, noted the gathering’s purpose extended beyond mere ceremony. It served as a pivotal platform for dialogue, forging strategic partnerships, legislative engagement, and policy explorations to strengthen agricultural institutions across Nigeria.
