Dr. Bosun Tijani, Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, has made a compelling case for the urgent adoption of digital technology in the country’s agricultural sector. Speaking at the Ogun Tech Forward Innovation & Startups Roundtable session in Abeokuta, Tijani emphasized that technology is the key to unlocking Nigeria’s vast agricultural potential, boosting food production, and curbing the rising prices that have left many Nigerians struggling.
Nigeria, with its expansive arable land and large population, has long been seen as a potential agricultural powerhouse. However, traditional farming practices have often proven inefficient and costly, leaving the country dependent on food imports. Tijani warned that without embracing innovation, Nigeria’s food security would remain 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,” he said.
The minister’s call to action is not just about adopting technology for technology’s sake. He highlighted the practical benefits of leveraging tools such as mobile apps, drones, sensors, and data analytics. These technologies can transform Nigeria’s farming landscape by enabling precision agriculture, providing real-time insights on soil conditions, pest control, crop health, and even intruder detection. The result? Enhanced farming efficiency, higher yields, lower production costs, and ultimately, more affordable food for Nigerians.
But Tijani’s vision extends beyond just the agricultural sector. He made a broader case for inclusive innovation across the country, cautioning that Nigeria’s technological future cannot be shaped by a few urban centres alone. “We can’t leave innovation in the hands of just a few cities. Every part of Nigeria, including towns and rural areas, must be part of the digital journey,” he declared. This inclusive approach, he argued, would not only strengthen the country’s digital economy but also create job opportunities and support digital entrepreneurship, particularly among Nigeria’s youthful population.
The minister’s remarks were met with enthusiasm by the President of the Ogun Tech Community, Mr. Adekunle Durosinmi. He called on the Federal Government to provide strategic support to accelerate the growth of the state’s digital ecosystem, including the establishment of a functional innovation hub and a permanent secretariat to nurture local startups. Durosinmi highlighted Ogun State’s unique position as a major industrial hub and strategic transport corridor, with a projected population of 7.1 million, 57 per cent of whom are of working age. “Ogun State is uniquely positioned to become a national leader in technology and entrepreneurship,” he said.
The implications of Tijani’s call to action are significant. By embracing digital technology in agriculture, Nigeria could not only boost its food production but also reduce its dependence on imports, saving valuable foreign exchange. Moreover, by fostering inclusive innovation, the country could tap into the potential of its youthful population, creating jobs and driving economic growth.
However, realizing this vision will require concerted efforts from all stakeholders. The government, industry, academia, and the tech ecosystem must collaborate to achieve national development goals. As Durosinmi noted, “We want to see such solutions replicated across the country. To accelerate this, we need your support.” The ball is now in the court of these stakeholders to heed Tijani’s call and work together to harness the power of technology for Nigeria’s agricultural and economic transformation.
