Nigeria Partners with UK’s Zander Corporation to Combat Desertification and Boost Agriculture

Nigeria Partners with UK’s Zander Corporation to Combat Desertification and Boost Agriculture

 In a move aimed at transforming agricultural practices and restoring degraded lands across Nigeria’s most vulnerable ecological zones, the Federal Government is set to enter into a strategic partnership with the United Kingdom’s Zander Corporation.

The decision was reached during a high-level meeting held at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, between Nigerian government officials and the management team of Zander Corporation, led by Lord Raymond Benedict Asquith, the 3rd Earl of Oxford and Asquith OBE, a member of the UK House of Lords.

Speaking at the meeting, the Nigerian government reaffirmed its commitment to afforestation as a core strategy in combating desertification, promoting sustainable land use, and ensuring long-term agricultural productivity. Officials emphasized the need for innovative biotechnology solutions to address the challenges of land degradation and food security in the country.

“There is a critical intersection between innovative technology and efforts to combat desertification and drive agricultural transformation in Nigeria,” a government representative stated.

The partnership with Zander Corporation is expected to leverage cutting-edge biotechnological advancements to rehabilitate degraded lands, improve soil fertility, and enhance climate resilience in agricultural communities. Experts believe that this collaboration will not only boost Nigeria’s agricultural sector but also contribute significantly to environmental sustainability and food security.

Further details on the framework of the partnership, including implementation strategies and investment commitments, are expected to be unveiled in the coming weeks.

Afrimash Urges Poultry Farmers to Embrace Best Practices, Stresses Odor Control

Afrimash Urges Poultry Farmers to Embrace Best Practices, Stresses Odor Control

 

Afrimash Nigeria, an agritech firm based in Ibadan, Oyo State, and known for its commitment to supporting the agricultural sector with top-notch services and products, is shining a spotlight on the importance of odor control in poultry farming. The company, which prides itself on helping farmers achieve sustainable success, is now calling attention to an issue that is often underestimated but critical to the health of farms and their surrounding communities.

Speaking about the matter, the CEO of Afrimash, Ayo, explained that while poultry farming plays an essential role in food production, it sometimes brings challenges, including unpleasant odors. These odors, if not addressed, can have far-reaching consequences. They don’t just create discomfort for nearby residents but also pose risks to the environment and even the birds themselves.

“Odor control in poultry farms is not just a courtesy to neighbors—it’s a necessity for the health of the farm and the environment,” Ayo stated. He elaborated that strong odors can degrade air quality, affecting the local ecosystem and leading to environmental pollution. This can, in turn, strain relationships with surrounding communities as persistent bad smells often lead to complaints and even intervention by regulatory bodies.

Beyond the impact on the environment and community, Ayo stressed the implications for the poultry’s well-being. Poor air quality can compromise the respiratory health of the birds, making them more susceptible to diseases. Additionally, he noted that unpleasant odors have a way of affecting the value of properties in the vicinity, a factor that many farmers might not consider when planning their operations.

According to Afrimash, investing in odor control measures is a win for everyone involved. It ensures that farmers can maintain healthy, productive poultry, avoid regulatory issues, and foster goodwill with their neighbors.

Afrimash has also reaffirmed its dedication to educating farmers on the best practices for poultry management. The company regularly shares resources on modern farming techniques and sustainable solutions. “We believe knowledge is key,” Ayo added. “Farmers who stay informed and proactive in addressing challenges like odor control can take their operations to new heights.”

Afrimash encourages poultry farmers and enthusiasts to follow its platforms (@afrimash) for more tips and updates on how to improve poultry health and operations.

 

 

Anthony Emeka Nwosu

#afrimash #poultryfarming #agritech #sustainability

 

Flexify Solutions Launches CyberAgric App to Revolutionize Agricultural Sector in Nigeria

Flexify Solutions Launches CyberAgric App to Revolutionize Agricultural Sector in Nigeria

Food security is a top priority for every nation, and Nigeria is no exception. Recognizing the crucial role of modern agricultural practices in ensuring food security, Flexify Solutions, a leading tech-based firm in Oyo State, has introduced “CyberAgric,” an innovative solution designed to drive food production in Nigeria.
CyberAgric is a cutting-edge mobile application that leverages artificial intelligence (AI) to support Nigerian farmers, particularly those involved in cash crop cultivation such as cassava and maize. The app’s groundbreaking features include early disease detection, with the capability to identify diseases like Cassava Brown Streak Disease (CBSD) in cassava leaves within the first two weeks of infection.

By utilizing smartphone cameras, farmers can capture images of their crops and receive real-time analysis and recommendations, empowering them to take proactive measures to protect their crops and ensure optimal yields. Moreover, CyberAgric is designed to function offline, ensuring accessibility for farmers in remote areas with limited internet connectivity.
Speaking on the significance of CyberAgric, Johnson Oyeniyi, CEO of Flexify Solutions, emphasized the app’s accessibility and educational value. “Our goal with CyberAgric is to ensure that every Nigerian farmer, regardless of their location or internet access, can benefit from advanced agricultural technology,” said Oyeniyi. “Beyond disease detection, the app serves as an educational platform, providing farmers with the latest agricultural best practices and expert resources.”

Johnson, the CEO of Flexify Solutions

Flexify Solutions collaborated closely with Cybermate Technologies to tailor CyberAgric to the specific needs of Nigerian farmers. The app initially focuses on cassava and maize cultivation, addressing the critical challenges faced by farmers in these sectors. Through advanced AI-driven disease detection capabilities, CyberAgric aims to mitigate the impact of crop diseases and enhance food security in Nigeria.

Flexify Solutions Ltd is a global company specializing in disruptive digital solutions. With a strong focus on innovation, Flexify Solutions excels in crafting AI solutions optimized for mobile platforms and driving transformative change across industries. With a proven track record in mobile app development, Flexify Solutions seamlessly integrates cutting-edge AI technologies to create intelligent solutions that resonate with users and drive success.

 

Agricultural Technology Will Enhance Production, Boost Revenue – Shehuri

Agricultural Technology Will Enhance Production, Boost Revenue – Shehuri

 

The Minister of State for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mustapha Baba Shehuri has said that agricultural technology would enhance production, boost revenue generation as well as revolutionise the agric sector. He also said that it will fast-track increase in yield, better packaging of agricultural products and attract foreign investors.

Speaking during the Handing Over / Taking Over of the China – Aid Nigeria Demonstration Centre Project in Bwari, Abuja recently, Mustapha Baba Shehuri represented by the Directorin the Department of Rural Development, Engr. Udo Daniel stated the Project would ensure transition from the small scale production model to a specialized commercial agricultural model.

Shehuri revealed that the objectives of the project was to provide and transfer advanced technology to the Nigerian youths as an enterprise as well as ensure training of local farmers in advanced technology to enhance productivity and wellbeing of Nigerian farmers. He added that it would train farmers on Agro- Processing Technology and ways of cultivating their interest in becoming micro and small scale entrepreneurs, geared towards owning their agri-business.

He stated that “the history of this project dates back to 10th of July 2013, while the actual construction work started in 2021 and was completed on 10th of October 2022 after series of documentations. Adding, the facilities at the centre are of world – class and includes Agricultural Technology Training and Research Centres, Processing and Exhibition Centres; Irrigation Facilities and Farmland Demonstration.

In his remarks at the occasion, the Minister of State for Budget and National Planning, Prince Clement Agba represented by Mrs. Fatima Sheji said that “the bilateral relations between the two countries started way back in 1971 and has maintained a cordial relationships which has brought about so many developmental activities across the country.

Also speaking in a welcome address, the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Cui Jian Chun said that his country will continue to strengthen the bilateral relation with Nigeria in terms of military, electricity and agricultural development, in order to improve and ensure food security in the country.
He revealed that the farm produce ranges from Hybrid Rice, Beans, Cassava, Yam and Corn among others with modern mechanized farm equipment to ease the process between planting and harvesting period.

Earlier in his goodwill message, the Chairman of Bwari Area Council, John Gabaya represented by the Supervising Councilor for Environment and Forestry, Salihu Mathew said that “Bwari Area Council has been a very peaceful community where all strangers are welcomed, including foreigners, regardless of where they come from and that it is a singular honour to have this type of development in his territory.

The cliclimax of the event featured the handing over and taking over of the China – Aid Nigeria Demonstration Centre Project as well as a guided tour of the project by the representative of the Minister of State. .

In attendance were the epresentative of the Minister of State for Budget and National Planning; Directors in the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development and Chinese Officials among other stakeholders.

The Project covers an area of 31.38 hectares with a total area of 3,521.55 square metres for each building and about 20,000 square metres for the access road of the park and supporting construction works at elevated area on both sides of the Dam.

Photo Caption:

L-R, the Representative of the Minister of State for Agriculture and Rural Development, Director, Rural Development Department, Engr Daniel Udo and the Chinese Ambassador in Nigeria, Mr. Cui Jianchun, during the Handing/ Taking Over Ceremony in Bwari- Abuja.

FOOD SECURITY: OGSG SETS UP COMMITTEE ON DATA GATHERING

FOOD SECURITY: OGSG SETS UP COMMITTEE ON DATA GATHERING

The Ogun State Government has inaugurated an inter-agency committee named Cadre Harmonise (CH), to work in conjunction with private partners on data collection and analysis needed to ensure food security.

Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture, Dr. Dotun Sorunke, while inaugurating the committee in Abeokuta, said the government would continue to take necessary steps to boost agriculture for the economic growth of the State.

Sorunke noted that members of the Committee were painstakingly chosen from relevant agencies that have crucial roles to play in the aggregation of data and are well suited to give a qualified analysis of the demographics of the projected food and nutrition situation.

He added that the Prince Dapo Abiodun-led administration was poised to explore avenues that would help develop agriculture, saying the committee would review the study result, to aid decision-making on food and nutrition, as well as the implementation of actions towards strengthening the sector.

Also speaking, the National CH Coordinator, Mr. Anthony Amu, applauded the State for signifying interest in the programme, which had been carried out in 21 States of the country, saying the parameters for the analysis include food and nutrition security outcomes.

Amu added that other factors to be considered include, hazards, food availability and access, as well as food utilisation and stability, charging the committee members to use the opportunity to serve the State diligently, by presenting accurate data and analysis.

DapoAbiodun #ISEYA #OgunState #BuildingOurFutureTogether #AgricDevelopment

Kebbi State Government is mobilizing farmers affected by recent flooding to embark on compensatory agricultural production.

Kebbi State Government is mobilizing farmers affected by recent flooding to embark on compensatory agricultural production. 

The administration will provide necessary farm input, moral and material support as well as desired encouragement to those who suffered loss in the flooding towards mitigating their hardship.

Governor Abubakar Atiku Bagudu gave this indication while featuring on an NTA programme in Abuja this Friday which analyzed mitigating 2020 flood disaster in some states.

Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu expressed belief that the flooding would have little impact on food production if necessary action were taken to re-energize farmers to re-cultivate new crops.

He made it clear that such replanting was possible, citing the fertility of soil in Kebbi state that could enable farmers to cultivate rice thrice within one year.

Governor Abubakar Atiku Bagudu acknowledged that various state governments have recorded an improvement on curtailing flood and its impact, in view of the reduction of human and animal fatalities.

Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu who was recognized as Vice-Chairman to President Muhammadu Buhari on the National Food Security Council, told viewers that attainment of food security was a continuing process and not limited to seasoned affair.

He expressed satisfaction about the response of the National Emergency Management Agency NEMA, and the Kebbi State Emergency Management Agency SEMA, to providing relief items to victims of the flood disaster in the state.

Governor Abubakar Atiku Bagudu has toured all parts of the state affected by the flooding to sympathizing with the communities.

Abubakar Mu’azu Dakingari
Chief Press Secretary
Government House

SMART AGRICULTURE IS THE WAY FORWARD – DR PANTAMI

SMART AGRICULTURE IS THE WAY FORWARD – DR PANTAMI

The Honourable Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami FNCS, FBCS, FIIM has emphasized on the need of coming up with innovative ideas that will promote smart agriculture in Nigeria as a means of diversifying the nation’s economy, highlighting that Nigeria is blessed with a large fertile landmass.

 The innovative thinking minister maintained that embracing smart agriculture in Nigeria and enhancing the capacity of farmers digitally will create millions of digital jobs and improve the country’s gross domestic product (GDP).The NEXT LEVEL minister stated that the National Adopted Village for Smart Agriculture (NAVSA) is part of the main policy of the National Digital Economy policy and strategy for a Digital Nigeria launched and unveiled by His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari GCFR. 

Dr Pantami stressed that the best way to improve the output in the agricultural sector in Nigeria is through the deployment of emerging technologies. The Honourable Minister said, “today, the whole world is focusing more on skills rather than certificates”. Citing an example with china which has announced the intention of converting 600 universities to skill acquisition centres. 

The minister made his position known today while making his remarks virtually in the capacity as the Chief Host during the closing ceremony of the pilot NAVSA programme which took place in Jigawa State. The Host Governor, His Excellency, Governor Mohammed Badaru Abubakar also in attendance virtually appreciated the vision of the Minister for bringing the project to the state and promised to ensure its sustainability. 

The Governor also called against beneficiaries selling or underutilizing materials and knowledge given to them to excel in life, maintaining that the state in the last few years has produced a lot of millionaires through rice farming precisely. 

The Highlight of the day was the presentation of Smart Devices; Internet Connectivity; Seed Fund; and Certified Seed to the 130 farmers who received training on a series of digital skills.  

 Source: Mr Yusuf Abubakar, Personal Assistant (New Media) to The Honourable Minister