The President of the Abuja Chambers of Commerce and Industry (ACCI), Emeka Obegolu, has called on Nigerians to adopt mechanised farming, digital agriculture, and sustainable value chain practices to boost productivity and transform the agricultural sector.
Speaking at the 2nd edition of the FARMFATECH Expo 2025 in Abuja, Obegolu highlighted that agriculture remains a key pillar of Nigeria’s economy, contributing significantly to employment and GDP, but noted that the country’s productivity levels are still below potential.
Technology as the New Tractor
Obegolu, represented by ACCI Vice President on Agriculture, Olasetemi Bode Thompson, stressed that technology is the new tractor, driving growth, efficiency, and competitiveness. He explained that mechanisation:
- Enables large-scale production
- Reduces labour intensity
- Improves efficiency across the agricultural value chain
He added that mechanised farming also helps mitigate challenges such as insecurity and limited access to arable land.
“This program marks another milestone in our collective effort to transform Nigeria’s agricultural landscape through mechanisation, innovation, and partnership,” Obegolu said. “FARMFATECH 2025 reinforces our shared commitment to reposition agriculture as the bedrock of national development and food security.”
FARMFATECH Expo 2025: Driving Innovation and Investment
The FARMFATECH Expo 2025 provides a platform for farmers, investors, policymakers, researchers, and innovators to explore technology-driven solutions across the entire agricultural value chain. Obegolu emphasized that the expo aligns with Nigeria’s broader economic transformation agenda, highlighting the need to modernize agricultural systems, strengthen food security, and expand agribusiness investment.
Government Support for Digital Agriculture
Representing the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, Marcus Olaniyi, Abubakar Musa, Director of the Federal Food and Drug Authority, noted that engagements and constructive dialogue are critical to advancing Nigeria’s agricultural development.
He stressed that the government continues to prioritize the sector due to its strategic role in food security, economic prosperity, and sustainable development. Musa highlighted the Ministry’s commitment to digitalization, technology, and innovation in agriculture, currently implemented through the National Agricultural Technology and Innovation Policy (NATIP).
Moving Forward
The ACCI’s call for mechanised and digital farming reflects a growing recognition that technology and innovation are key to transforming Nigeria’s agriculture, increasing productivity, and securing long-term food security.
With programs like FARMFATECH Expo, Nigeria is poised to modernize its agricultural landscape, strengthen investment opportunities, and position itself as a hub for agritech innovation in Africa.
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