Dr. Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, has called on Nigerian farmers to embrace technology-driven agricultural practices to enhance food production and secure national food security. Speaking at an ‘Innovation and Startups Roundtable’ with the Ogun Tech Community in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Tijani highlighted the inadequacy of Nigeria’s current farming methods in meeting the food demands of its burgeoning population.
The minister warned that without the integration of modern technology into agriculture, the country would continue to grapple with food shortages, soaring prices, and the depletion of foreign exchange reserves on food imports. He advocated for a synergy between agriculture and innovation, asserting that such a union is crucial for revolutionizing food production, generating employment, and boosting income.
“The use of tools like mobile apps, drones, sensors, and real-time data can help farmers monitor crops, control pests, detect soil changes, and improve yields,” Tijani explained. He cited Ukraine’s resilience in grain production amid its ongoing conflict with Russia as an example of how technology can transform agricultural output. Tijani emphasized that Nigeria, with its abundant arable land, could similarly harness technology to become an agricultural powerhouse.
The minister’s call to action underscores the urgent need for Nigeria to modernize its agricultural sector. With a population of over 200 million, the country’s food demands are immense and growing. Traditional farming methods, while still prevalent, are often inefficient and unable to keep pace with the population’s needs. By adopting technology-driven practices, farmers can increase productivity, reduce waste, and improve the quality of their produce.
Moreover, the integration of technology into agriculture can create new job opportunities and stimulate economic growth. For instance, the use of drones and sensors requires skilled operators, while the development and maintenance of mobile apps and data systems can generate employment in the tech sector. This synergy between agriculture and innovation can also attract investment, both domestic and foreign, further boosting the economy.
During his visit to his alma mater, Anglican Grammar School, Onikolobo, Abeokuta, Tijani unveiled various annual scholarship packages for 88 students. He also announced a prize of N100,000 and a laptop for the top three students in each level of the Junior Secondary class (JSS) 1 to 3 and their seniors in the SSS classes 1 to 3. Additionally, he pledged to provide new school uniforms for 70 students annually.
Tijani also announced the adoption of a block of classrooms and the science laboratory for complete renovation. “We have also adopted one of the story buildings, we are going to furnish it and equip it with a Smart Board in all the classrooms. In the same vein, we have also adopted the Science Lab for a 100 percent renovation that will ensure that it is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment,” he said.
Addressing the students, Tijani emphasized the importance of believing in their potential. “Coming back to the school is also a way of encouraging the students here to believe that their beginning today and they can also become a minister in the future, they can become an ambassador, they can become a Governor. They can shake the world, they can become President, our kids should key in on that, because it is the most important,” he stated.
The minister’s initiatives at his alma mater highlight his commitment to education and the development of future leaders. By providing scholarships, prizes, and modern educational facilities, Tijani aims to inspire and empower students to achieve their full potential. His actions serve as a reminder that investing in education is crucial for the country’s long-term growth and development.
In conclusion, Tijani’s call for the adoption of technology-driven agricultural practices and his commitment to education underscore the importance of innovation and investment in human capital for Nigeria’s future. By embracing these changes, the country can address its food security challenges, stimulate economic growth, and empower its youth to become future leaders.
