Expert Urges Governments to Prioritize Digital Training for Farmers to Tackle Food Insecurity

Workshop organised to enhance farmers’ capacity in digital agricultural solutions.

Prominent agricultural economist, Prof. Adeolu Ayanwale has emphasised the critical need for both federal and state governments in Nigeria to prioritise digital training for farmers as a solution to food insecurity across the nation.

Ayanwale made the assertion at a workshop organised recently by the Commonwealth of Learning, Canada, in collaboration with Obafemi Awolowo University and the Agricultural and Rural Management Training Institute (ARMTI).

Speaking at the event, the University Don highlighted the importance of digital training in improving agricultural production and marketing. He stressed the necessity of teaching farmers how to utilize digital tools throughout various stages of crop production and marketing, including the use of social media platforms like WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.

Citing the current food inflation rate of over 40 percent, Prof. Ayanwale emphasized the urgency of empowering farmers with digital skills to boost productivity and ultimately enhance food security, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 1 (SDG) of zero hunger.

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The workshop, themed “Scaling-up Lifelong Learning for Farmers on Digital Agricultural Solution for Vegetables Farmers in Southwest Nigeria towards Achieving the SDG,” has already trained over 500 individuals intensively since its inception in March 2023. The training aims to equip farmers, especially youth and women, with skills in vegetable production, including nursery operations, agronomy, and digital marketing.

Dr. Olufemi Oladunni, the Executive Director of ARMTI, advised farmers on best practices in fertilization and urged them to adopt eco-friendly farming methods. Prof. Kemi Idowu from Obafemi Awolowo University emphasized the importance of climate-smart agricultural practices and water management techniques.

Participants, such as Mrs. Opeyemi Olaobaju, expressed gratitude for the workshop and pledged to utilize the knowledge and resources provided effectively.

The workshop underscores the growing recognition of digital technology as a vital tool in transforming agricultural practices and addressing food insecurity in Nigeria.