The Oyo State Government is on the cusp of a transformative journey in agriculture and livestock production, thanks to a strategic partnership with the United Kingdom Agritech Centre. This collaboration aims to infuse science and technology into farming practices, marking a significant shift from traditional methods.
The UK Agritech Centre’s initiative is not just about introducing new technologies; it’s about establishing a robust infrastructure to support these innovations. The Centre plans to set up an Agritech Hub within one of Oyo State’s Agribusiness Industrial Hubs. This hub will serve as a catalyst for agricultural revolution, providing farmers and agribusiness practitioners with the resources and opportunities needed to embrace technological innovations.
The Executive Adviser to the state governor on Agribusiness, Debo Akande, unveiled this development during a visit by a UK delegation led by Mr Mark Smithson, Director of the UK Department of Business and Trade in Nigeria. Akande highlighted that the partnership is part of a broader effort to expand trade opportunities between Oyo State and the UK, aligning with initiatives like the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) and a new tripartite project involving Brazil, the UK, and Nigeria.
Akande emphasised that the project is fully funded, moving beyond the conceptualisation stage. The UK delegation’s visit aimed to understand the state’s specific needs and challenges, ensuring that the implemented solutions are tailored and effective. This approach is crucial as it addresses the gap between the potential of young, capable farmers and the lack of technological know-how.
The implications of this partnership are vast. By integrating technology into agriculture, Oyo State stands to increase productivity and production significantly. This shift is essential as it moves agriculture beyond rudimentary practices to precision farming, innovation, and mechanical solutions. The Agritech Hub will be a focal point for these advancements, fostering an environment where technological solutions can thrive and be adopted by local farmers.
Smithson, representing the UK delegation, underscored the importance of this collaboration. He noted that the partnership is part of a broader investment agreement signed between the UK and Nigeria in February 2024, with agriculture being a priority area. The UK Agritech Centre, comprising 300 members from the private sector and academia, will bring science and technology-based solutions to Nigeria, enhancing agricultural productivity.
The visit by the UK delegation to Oyo State signifies a promising future for the state’s agricultural sector. This partnership is not just about economic growth but also about empowering local farmers with the tools and knowledge to drive innovation. As the Agritech Hub takes shape, it will serve as a beacon of progress, showcasing how technology can revolutionise agriculture and create new opportunities for growth and development.