Korea Blockchain Week has kicked off with a bang, revealing some groundbreaking developments poised to shake up the cryptocurrency market. In a notable media interaction at the event, Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse announced plans to introduce a new U.S. dollar-pegged stablecoin, Ripple USD (RLUSD).
Currently, Ripples new stablecoin is in a private beta phase. Although Garlinghouse did not specify a launch date, it is anticipated that RLUSD will debut in the market within the next few weeks.
Heres a closer look at this exciting revelation!
Ripple CEO Slams SEC
Garlinghouse showed no reluctance in throwing his criticism towards the United States Securities and Exchange Commission. He pointed out the bitter challenges cryptocurrency companies face due to the hostile attitude of the SEC towards crypto-related business activities. He warned crypto companies to think twice before launching their businesses in the United States.
His statements indirectly showcased how much pain he experienced during his company’s legal battle against the SEC.
Ripple vs. SEC: What’s the Outcome?
In the initial stage of the legal battle, the SEC imposed a hefty fine of $2 billion on Ripple. Garlinghouses organisation challenged the fine and succeeded in bringing it down to a comparatively lesser sum of $125 million, marking an end to the long-running legal battle.
Many regard this as a victory for the entire crypto community.
Garlinghouses remarks were among the most outspoken of the event so far. As Korea Blockchain Week continues until September 7, 2024, its likely that more bold statements and announcements will emerge in the days ahead.
Also Check Out: Ripple vs SEC: Heres Why Garlinghouse Says SEC Cannot Appeal the Ruling
Do you think Ripple’s new stablecoin will disrupt the market? Let us know your predictions.
Nigeria is advocating for a strengthened partnership with the United Nations to advance sustainable agricultural development and enhance food security. This appeal was made in Abuja on Tuesday during the visit of UN Deputy Secretary-General Dr. Amina Mohammed, who engaged with key stakeholders in agriculture and food security.
During the visit, Abubakar Kyari, Nigeria’s Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, welcomed Dr. Mohammed and underscored the significant role the UN has played in Nigeria’s development. He emphasized the importance of this partnership in addressing the country’s growing food security needs and aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on food security, economic growth, job creation, and poverty reduction.
Kyari highlighted Nigeria’s longstanding cooperation with UN agencies such as the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). He noted that Nigeria has consistently contributed financially to these organizations to support food system resilience and agricultural development.
The minister specifically sought additional support for programs like the Value Chain Development Programme and the Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprises Project – Niger Delta, which are aimed at boosting food production and improving rural livelihoods.
Dr. Mohammed expressed the UN’s support for Nigeria’s strategy to manage its food security crisis, acknowledging that the situation is compounded by both domestic challenges and global disruptions. She emphasized the need for coordinated efforts across all government levels and highlighted the importance of addressing both displacement and security issues.
She noted that resolving the crisis will require time and resources, given the complex interplay of factors including the global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine. Despite these challenges, she expressed optimism about Nigeria’s strategy, provided it receives adequate support.
Mohammed also stressed the need for collaboration across different government levels and stakeholders to overcome the food security crisis. She acknowledged the debate surrounding the role of technology and biotechnology in agriculture but emphasized the importance of balancing innovation with the protection of Nigeria’s agricultural systems.
The Minister of Art, Culture, and Creative Economy (FMACCE), Hannatu Musawa, has presented the ministry’s Strategic Roadmap for Nigeria’s creative sector to the diplomatic community and international partners, with the goal of creating at least two million jobs.
The presentation was made on September 2, 2024, at the Diplomatic and International Development Partners Forum, held at the UN House in Abuja.
The forum aimed to showcase the opportunities that abound in Nigeria’s creative sector.
Creative Roadmap
Nairametrics previously reported that Hannatu Musawa announced plans to generate two million jobs within Nigeria’s creative industry by 2027. She also revealed that the ministry was set to introduce a financing framework for the sector’s development.
During an interactive session with the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) in Abuja on February 22, 2024, Musawa highlighted collaboration with the NESG and other partners for fundraising and capacity enhancement. This partnership will enable the ministry to contribute over N90 billion to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 2030.
“With the right funding mechanism, I think we can do so much to help Nigeria out of the doldrums by creating at least two million jobs from the creative sector value chain by 2027,” she had said.
FG’s Assurance to the Diplomatic Community
According to the News Agency of Nigeria, Musawa said Nigeria’s creative economy encompasses arts, culture, and other sectors.
Presenting the roadmap, she stated that it marks a significant milestone in collective efforts to unlock the full potential of Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage and creative industries.
According to her, since 2023, the ministry has embarked on a transformative journey, implementing “The 8 Point Plan,” designed to cultivate growth, innovation, and sustainability across Nigeria’s creative sectors.
“This ambitious roadmap not only focuses on skill development and policy reform, but also prioritizes the preservation of our cultural heritage and the need to foster strong partnerships.
“As we look forward, our vision remains clear: to position Nigeria as Africa’s creative capital while stimulating economic growth through creative industries.
“I invite all of you—artists, stakeholders, diplomatic partners, and policymakers—to join us in this transformative endeavor.
“Together, we will create an enabling environment for creativity to flourish, ensuring our diverse cultural expressions lead to sustainable development and job creation.
“Let us embrace this opportunity to showcase Nigeria’s unique artistic talent to the world and enhance our commitment to driving growth in the creative economy for generations to come,” she said.
UNESCO’s Support
On his part, Abdourahamane Diallo, Head of Office and Country Representative of UNESCO in Nigeria, lauded the minister’s initiatives, adding that they align with UNESCO’s 2005 Convention for the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions.
What You Should Know
Nigeria’s creative industry has grown significantly in recent years, mainly powered by music (Afrobeat) and movies (Nollywood). Nigerian music artists have seen their songs top charts across the world, raking in billions in online streams.
Additionally, the Nigerian movie industry (Nollywood) has become the second most productive movie industry globally, only behind India’s Bollywood in terms of movies produced yearly.
The growth in the creative industry in recent times is fueled by Nigeria’s large young population and the multicultural setting of the nation. With over 70% of its 210 million population under 30 years old and about 250 tribes speaking 500 languages, Nigeria is a melting pot of cultures, creating the perfect environment for creativity to thrive.
The pensioner died in hospital after he was allegedly attacked by a group in Braunstone Town on Sunday evening.
By Hannah KaneDeputy News Editor,Jon KingNews Reporter,Conor WilsonNews Reporter
Braunstone Town: Police at scene where 80-year-old died
Five children have been arrested on suspicion of murder after an 80-year-old man died following a serious assault in a park in Braunstone Town, Leicestershire Police have said.
A boy and a girl aged 14 and one boy and two girls aged 12 were arrested by police, the force said on Tuesday, September 3.
Leicestershire Police have launched a murder investigation after the elderly man died in hospital from injuries sustained in Franklin Park in Braunstone Town, Leicestershire, on the evening of September 1 at around 6.30pm.
The alleged assault happened close to the park’s entrance in Bramble Way. A group of young people allegedly fled the scene before emergency services arrived, according to Leicestershire Police.
Detectives want to speak to anyone who was in the park or the area of Bramble Way between 6pm and 6.45pm on Sunday.
Leicestershire Police has launched a murder investigation after the elderly man died in hospital (Image: Leicestershire Live)
Det Insp Emma Matts, senior investigating officer, said: “Sadly, following the death of the victim last night, this has now become a murder investigation.
“Officers are continuing to work at speed to establish the details of the attack and we have made a number of arrests as we continue to understand what has happened.”
She added police still need people to come forward if they were in the area around the time of the incident or have any information which could assist the investigation.
The 80-year-old is believed to have been wearing a black jumper and grey jogging bottoms.
She said: “Were you in the area of Franklin Park or Bramble Way around 6.30pm on Sunday night? Did you see the attack itself?
Police have arrested five children after a dog walker, 80, was killed in a park attack (Image: Leicestershire Live)
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“From the description given did you see the victim before the incident or possibly a group of young people leaving the area after?
“A scene preservation will remain in place at the park while our investigation progresses. Local officers are also in the area carrying out reassurance patrols and can speak to anyone in the local community who has concerns.”
Leicestershire Police said in a statement it will make a voluntary referral to the Independent Office of Police Conduct because of prior contact with the victim.
Osun State governor, Ademola Adeleke on Friday said his administration has committed N8 billion to procure tractors and other farm clearing equipments to boost agriculture sector in the state.
Adeleke stated this while unveiling newly purchased tractors and other farm clearing equipment at Agric Input Settlement Unit (AISU), Ede.
According to him, the procurement of the equipments plus additional N2billion farm inputs followed due process.
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Governor Adeleke noted that at the inception of his administration, he crafted policy objectives and also fashioned an agenda towards their realization which was tagged the 5-Point Action Plan.
He said the objectives include the welfare of workers, financial inclusion, localization, people-centered infrastructure upgrade, as well as social sector upliftment and agro-industrialization.
The governor who said 6,000 herbicides, 80,000 cashew seedlings, 8,000 cassava cuttings, 8,000 various vegetable seeds and 500 bags of Lime would be distributed to the farmers, women associations, people living with disabilities and government schools with large farmlands, urged the beneficiaries to utilise it to boost the agricultural sector in the state.
“We are equally unveiling 31 newly purchased tractors with full implements for the use of our farmers in Osun State which is the first phase of this project,” he said.
“These tractors will be released to farmers cooperative societies and associations after all necessary administrative procedures have been concluded.
“This is also in line with the promise made to our resourceful youthful population during the last End Bad Governance protest. We hope to provide all necessary infrastructure and resources to enhance agricultural production and ensure food security for our people.”
Earlier in his remark, the state commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Hon. Tola Faseru, said the ministry was working interdem with the five point agenda of the governor in the area of agric development
He said, “farming all over the globe has become a profitable venture as well as a veritable means of empowerment. Osun State is purely an agrarian society. It is abundantly endowed with fertile land, supportive weather and human resources to leverage on agriculture for attaining food security.”
He noted that the resolve of Governor Adeleke to procure tractors and other farm clearing equipments alongside with distribution of farm inputs and seeds will go a long way in removing drudgery associated with production of food crops and youths’ notions that agribusiness is tedious and unprofitable.
He assured the farmers in the state that more new tractors and their implements are being expected to arrive in due course.
He commended the governor for being proactive and urged the beneficiaries to make use of the opportunity very well.
President of the African Development Bank Group, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, gave a stark warning on Nigeria’s import-dependence recently. Speaking at the Council of Anglican Provinces of Africa retreat, Adesina said the decision by Nigeria’s government to allow massive food importation risks destroying its agriculture. Hear him: “Nigeria cannot rely on the importation of food to stabilize prices. Nigeria should be producing more food to stabilize food prices, while creating jobs and reducing foreign exchange spending. That will further help stabilize the naira. Nigeria cannot import its way out of food insecurity.”
The verdict is hard to contest, especially given that last year, the Economic Research Service of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) put Nigeria’s 2024 projected rice import at 2.1 million metric tons, making the country the top rice buyer globally. However, if state governments in the country adopt the Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun’ strategy, this climate of food importation is bound to change. It may sound like a fairytale, but with a yield of seven metric tonnes per hectare on the 200-hectare pilot project, the Gateway State under Abiodun’s strategic foresight produced approximately 1,400 metric tonnes of rice, equivalent to 20,000 bags of milled rice, bringing in an estimated revenue of N1 billion every three months.
Governor Abiodun, on Monday, August 19, flagged off the harvest of the 200-hectare Magboro rice farm in Obafemi-Owode Local Government Area of the state. With the feat, the out-growers, including many youths and women who are new to farming, have effectively conquered poverty. And, what is more, following the success of the first harvest, the project will now be scaled up to 2,000 hectares, and there are plans to expand it to 5,000 hectares. The scale-up is projected to yield between N10 billion to N25 billion in revenue per quarter. The farm, a brainchild of the Ogun State Economic Transformation Project (OGSTEP), is supported by the World Bank to drive economic growth and development in the state. Hear the Governor: “This project started in April this year. They began planting in May, and today we are already harvesting, making it a three-month cycle. It means that we can do this three times a year . 20,000 bags of milled rice per cycle should be estimated to cost about N1 billion. So, these 200 farmers, made up of women and youths across the country, who farm here in just three months, have a revenue of N1 billion. If they do this three times this year, they will earn N3 billion. We have no business being hungry in Nigeria. In this place, I have 12,500 hectares of land, and all we have farmed is 200 hectares that yielded N1 billion for 200 farmers. From here, I can feed the rest of the country. We will scale up this project immediately from 200 to 2,000 hectares.We can generate N30 billion in revenue. We can take significant steps towards realising that vision of making Ogun State the food basket of this country.”
That is no idle boast. For instance, OGSTEP is not just providing critical support, including advanced agricultural techniques, access to quality seeds, modern irrigation systems and technical training for farmers, Governor Abiodun ensures that beneficiaries get a 65 per cent discount on the cost of each mechanisation operation. OGSTEP empowers farmers through training and retraining, increasing farm productivity. Crop inputs, herbicides and birds are distributed freely to farmers to boost their productivity. Aiming to strengthen the value chain processes in agriculture, especially among smallholder farmers in Nigeria, the Ogun State Ministry of Agriculture, in partnership with IITA–CGIAR, launched the Ogun State Farmer Information Management System (OGFIMS) on April 20, 2023. Before then, Governor Abiodun had won back-to-back Best Governor in Agriculture recognition at the Nigerian Agriculture Awards.
No one who knows anything about the Gateway International Cargo Airport can doubt Abiodun’s commitment to agricultural revolution. The airport provides a veritable platform to enhance the industrial base of the state, opening the frontiers of businesses and also opening the state to the rest of the world. It will generate approximately 50,000 direct and indirect jobs. It is built on an airport city and massive construction is ongoing there courtesy of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), among other agencies that have mapped out the place for their agency needs. It is not for nothing that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu approved the Special Agro-Cargo Processing Zone as a Free Trade Zone.
It can be no surprise that Ogun under Abiodun has one of the highest number of beneficiaries in the CBN/Federal Government Anchor Borrowers Programme (ABP) in cassava, and has retained its ranking as the largest hub for industries (including Agro-ventures) in Nigeria, the largest egg and broiler producer, largest producer and exporter of lemon grass oil, largest hub for aquaculture in West Africa (according to FAO) and many others. Governor Abiodun puts the development in perspective: “In line with our resolve to partner with the private sector and provide enabling environment for investments and agribusinesses, we have become the world epicenter as a dependable host and partner, especially with the Government initiative of establishing the Cargo Airport to supplement the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone (SAPZ) of the African Development Bank (AfDB) and other donor funded projects including the IFAD/FGN Value Chain Development Project (VCDP), in which our state has recorded tremendous success with 12,000 beneficiaries supported with technology, inputs and credit”.
The establishment of an integrated farm estate, gari packaging plant and a 200-trainee soil-testing programme, complemented with the signing of MoUs with national and international development partners such as IITA, HarvestPlus and a host of other private sector partners on private sector-led initiatives, are all part of the Ogun agriculture revolution story, as is the Planting Materials Palliative (PMP) rolled out at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, and targeted at 40,000 smallholder farmers. The Presidential Fertilizer Initiative supplied fertilizer to target 10,000 farmers.
If Ogun is now a leading producer of rice, maize, and cassava in Nigeria, it is because the Abiodun government invested heavily in the development of agricultural infrastructure: irrigation systems, farm roads, and storage facilities. It has won plaudits for fostering partnerships with private sector players and implementing livestock improvements mechanisms, including the distribution of breeding stock, veterinary support, and the establishment of grazing reserves.
That’s not all. Through the Anchor Borrowers Programme, the Abiodun administration has revolutionized youth involvement in agriculture in Ogun State. It created the Ogun State Investment Promotion Agency (OGUNIPA) and the Ogun State Business Executive Council (OGUNBEC) to make the Gateway State the destination of choice for investors. It regularly supports farmers to produce high-quality products and links them to markets and processors. Among others, the Ogun State Agricultural Policy and the Ogun State Livestock Development Policy guarantees this. The government empowers farmers with solar pump machines. It rolled out the N50 million Ijebu Development Initiative for Poverty Reduction (Eriwe) to develop the fish subsector in the state. At one go, it empowered 40,000 agripreneurs in cassava cultivation.
The message is clear: Ogun under Abiodun is on a massive journey of food security that highlights a cardinal feature of progressive, visionary leadership. That, in the final analysis, is a big plus for Nigeria.
Akinmade is Special Adviser on Media and Strategy to Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State.
To drive the successful integration of digital solutions in Nigerian agriculture, it is imperative that all stakeholders; government agencies, technology providers, and the farming community collaborate and support this transformation. Government agencies should prioritise funding and policy support that fosters technological innovation, such as grants, subsidies, and infrastructure development.
The Director General of National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa has recently highlighted the game-changing potential of emerging technologies like AI, IoT, and blockchain in transforming Nigeria’s agricultural sector.
Mr Kashifu disclosed this recently during the launching of the Survey on Digitisation of Supply-Chain in Small-Scale Nigerian Farms Project, a collaborative effort between AGROVESTO, NITDA, Office for Nigerian Digital Innovation (ONDI), Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), and Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (FMAFS).
The DG, represented at the event by Engineer Salisu Kaka, emphasised that these innovations can revolutionise farming practices, enhance food security, and address the longstanding challenges faced by Nigerian farmers.
The initiative aims to harness the power of technology to drive sustainable agricultural growth and improve the livelihoods of small-scale farmers in Nigeria.
Small-scale farming is a vital component of Nigeria’s agricultural landscape, playing a central role in the nation’s economy and food security. This sector is the backbone of millions of rural households, providing employment and sustenance. Small-scale farmers contribute significantly to food production, growing a variety of crops and raising livestock that meet local dietary needs and support domestic markets. Their contributions are crucial for ensuring food availability and stability, especially in regions where large-scale commercial farming is less prevalent.
Despite their importance, small-scale farmers in Nigeria face numerous challenges, that can be easily solved using technological solutions. Even though technological solutions offer overwhelming benefits, however, there are a few problems associated with the adoption of these technological solutions by the farmers, and these call for an address for the growth of the national economy.
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One of these arguments is the high initial cost of technological tools. Implementing advanced tools such as precision agriculture systems, data analytics platforms, and automated machinery, can require substantial financial investment. For many small-scale farmers, these costs seem huge, especially when budgets are tight and immediate returns on investment are uncertain.
However, it should be highlighted that while the initial costs of digital tools can be significant, it is important to consider the long-term savings and return on investment they offer. Digital technologies can lead to increased efficiency, higher yields, and reduced waste, all of which contribute to greater profitability over time. The improvements in productivity and efficiency can quickly offset the initial expenditure.
Moreover, various funding and support programmes are available to help offset the costs of adopting digital technologies. Government grants, subsidies, and low-interest loans are often offered to encourage technological innovation in agriculture. International organisations and non-profits also provide financial assistance and technical support to small-scale farmers. These resources can help ease the financial burden and make the transition to digital tools more feasible.
Another way to mitigate high costs is through collaborative models such as farmer cooperatives. By pooling resources, small-scale farmers can collectively invest in digital tools and share the benefits. This approach not only reduces individual costs but also fosters knowledge sharing and collective problem-solving. Cooperatives can also negotiate better deals and access bulk-purchasing discounts, further lowering the financial impact.
It should be noted that the long-term benefits of digital technologies often outweigh the initial costs. The increased efficiency, reduced waste, and better market access that digital tools provide can lead to substantial economic gains. When viewed as an investment in future productivity and profitability, the initial expense becomes a manageable and worthwhile investment.
Another argument against the adoption of digital technologies in agriculture is that many farmers may struggle to use technologies effectively due to limited technological literacy.
To address technological literacy issues, it is crucial to invest in comprehensive training and support programmes. The programmes should be tailored to the specific needs of farmers, providing hands-on instruction and practical guidance on using digital tools. Effective training can help farmers build confidence and competence in using new technologies, making the transition smoother and more successful.
Numerous successful digital literacy initiatives provide a model for overcoming this barrier. For instance, organisations like Digital Green and various agricultural extension services have implemented training programmes that effectively educate farmers on using technology. These programmes often include workshops, field demonstrations, and ongoing support, helping farmers to integrate digital tools into their operations successfully.
In addition, community-based support networks and peer-to-peer learning can also enhance technological literacy. By fostering a culture of collaboration and knowledge sharing among farmers, these networks can facilitate the exchange of practical tips and troubleshooting advice. Experienced users can mentor others, helping to spread technological proficiency and build confidence across the farming community.
Another concern is that infrastructure challenges, such as limited internet and electricity access in rural areas, are significant barriers to the adoption of digital technologies in agriculture. Many rural regions in Nigeria face unreliable electricity and poor internet connectivity, which can make it difficult for farmers to use digital tools effectively.
Despite these challenges, there have been notable improvements in infrastructure that support digital adoption. Mobile-based applications that function well with lower connectivity levels can offer valuable services, even in areas with limited internet access.
Also, solar-powered solutions are also emerging as a practical answer to electricity challenges in rural areas. Solar panels and battery storage systems provide a reliable and sustainable source of power, enabling farmers to use digital tools and technologies, regardless of local grid reliability.
Importantly, partnerships between technology providers, government agencies, and local communities can help address infrastructure challenges. Collaborative efforts can lead to the development of tailored solutions that meet the specific needs of rural areas. By working together, stakeholders can create innovative approaches to overcoming infrastructure barriers and supporting digital adoption in agriculture.
To drive the successful integration of digital solutions in Nigerian agriculture, it is imperative that all stakeholders; government agencies, technology providers, and the farming community collaborate and support this transformation. Government agencies should prioritise funding and policy support that fosters technological innovation, such as grants, subsidies, and infrastructure development. By creating favourable conditions for digital adoption, the government can facilitate a smoother transition for farmers. Technology providers, on the other hand, need to focus on developing user-friendly, affordable solutions tailored to the needs of small-scale farmers. Their role also involves providing comprehensive training and support to ensure that farmers can effectively utilise these tools.
Additionally, the farming community must be proactive in embracing digital solutions and participating in training programmes. Farmers should engage with available resources and advocate for the tools and support they need to enhance their operations. By building partnerships and sharing knowledge, farmers can collectively advance digital adoption and benefit from improved productivity and market access. Encouraging open dialogue and cooperation among these stakeholders will be crucial for overcoming barriers and realising the full potential of digital transformation in agriculture.
Shuaib S. Agaka, a tech journalist, writes from Kano.
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Transforming Nigerian Agriculture through Tech Ecosystem By Shuaib S. Agaka
The Director General of National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa has recently highlighted the game-changing potential of emerging technologies like AI, IoT, and blockchain in transforming Nigeria’s agricultural sector.
Mr. Kashifu disclosed this recently during the launching of the Survey on Digitization of Supply-Chain in Small-Scale Nigerian Farms Project, a collaborative effort between AGROVESTO, NITDA, Office for Nigerian Digital Innovation (ONDI), Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), and Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (FMAFS).
The DG, represented by Engr. Salisu Kaka, emphasized that these innovations can revolutionize farming practices, enhance food security, and address long-standing challenges faced by Nigerian farmers.
The initiative aims to harness the power of technology to drive sustainable agricultural growth and improve the livelihoods of small-scale farmers in Nigeria.
Small-scale farming is a vital component of Nigeria’s agricultural landscape, playing a central role in the nation’s economy and food security. This sector is the backbone for millions of rural households, providing employment and sustenance. Small-scale farmers contribute significantly to food production, growing a variety of crops and raising livestock that meet local dietary needs and support domestic markets. Their contributions are crucial for ensuring food availability and stability, especially in regions where large-scale commercial farming is less prevalent.
Despite their importance, small-scale farmers in Nigeria face numerous challenges, that can be easily solved using technological solutions. Even though technological solutions offer overwhelming benefits, however, there are a few problems associated with the adoption of these technological solutions by the farmers, and these call for an address for the growth of the national economy.
One of these arguments is the high initial cost of technological tools. Implementing advanced tools such as precision agriculture systems, data analytics platforms, and automated machinery can require substantial financial investment. For many small-scale farmers, these costs seem huge, especially when budgets are tight and immediate returns on investment are uncertain.
However, it should be highlighted that while the initial costs of digital tools can be significant, it is important to consider the long-term savings and return on investment they offer. Digital technologies can lead to increased efficiency, higher yields, and reduced waste, all of which contribute to greater profitability over time. The improvements in productivity and efficiency can quickly offset the initial expenditure.
Moreover, various funding and support programs are available to help offset the costs of adopting digital technologies. Government grants, subsidies, and low-interest loans are often offered to encourage technological innovation in agriculture. International organizations and non-profits also provide financial assistance and technical support to small-scale farmers. These resources can help ease the financial burden and make the transition to digital tools more feasible.
Another way to mitigate high costs is through collaborative models such as farmer cooperatives. By pooling resources, small-scale farmers can collectively invest in digital tools and share the benefits. This approach not only reduces individual costs but also fosters knowledge sharing and collective problem-solving. Cooperatives can also negotiate better deals and access bulk-purchasing discounts, further lowering the financial impact.
It should be noted that the long-term benefits of digital technologies often outweigh the initial costs. The increased efficiency, reduced waste, and better market access that digital tools provide can lead to substantial economic gains. When viewed as an investment in future productivity and profitability, the initial expense becomes a manageable and worthwhile investment.
Read Also:
Another argument against the adoption of digital technologies in agriculture is that many farmers may struggle to use technologies effectively due to limited technological literacy.
To address technological literacy issues, it is crucial to invest in comprehensive training and support programs. The programs should be tailored to the specific needs of farmers, providing hands-on instruction and practical guidance on using digital tools. Effective training can help farmers build confidence and competence in using new technologies, making the transition smoother and more successful.
Numerous successful digital literacy initiatives provide a model for overcoming this barrier. For instance, organizations like Digital Green and various agricultural extension services have implemented training programs that effectively educate farmers on using technology. These programs often include workshops, field demonstrations, and ongoing support, helping farmers to integrate digital tools into their operations successfully.
Additionally, community-based support networks and peer-to-peer learning can also enhance technological literacy. By fostering a culture of collaboration and knowledge sharing among farmers, these networks can facilitate the exchange of practical tips and troubleshooting advice. Experienced users can mentor others, helping to spread technological proficiency and build confidence across the farming community.
Another concern is that infrastructure challenges, such as limited internet and electricity access in rural areas, are significant barriers to the adoption of digital technologies in agriculture. Many rural regions in Nigeria face unreliable electricity and poor internet connectivity, which can make it difficult for farmers to use digital tools effectively.
Despite these challenges, there have been notable improvements in infrastructure that support digital adoption. Mobile-based applications that function well with lower connectivity levels can offer valuable services even in areas with limited internet access.
Also, solar-powered solutions are also emerging as a practical answer to electricity challenges in rural areas. Solar panels and battery storage systems provide a reliable and sustainable source of power, enabling farmers to use digital tools and technologies regardless of local grid reliability.
Importantly, partnerships between technology providers, government agencies, and local communities can help address infrastructure challenges. Collaborative efforts can lead to the development of tailored solutions that meet the specific needs of rural areas. By working together, stakeholders can create innovative approaches to overcoming infrastructure barriers and supporting digital adoption in agriculture.
To drive the successful integration of digital solutions in Nigerian agriculture, it is imperative that all stakeholders; government agencies, technology providers, and the farming community collaborate and support this transformation. Government agencies should prioritize funding and policy support that fosters technological innovation, such as grants, subsidies, and infrastructure development. By creating favorable conditions for digital adoption, the government can facilitate a smoother transition for farmers. Technology providers, on the other hand, need to focus on developing user-friendly, affordable solutions tailored to the needs of small-scale farmers. Their role also involves providing comprehensive training and support to ensure that farmers can effectively utilize these tools.
Additionally, the farming community must be proactive in embracing digital solutions and participating in training programs. Farmers should engage with available resources and advocate for the tools and support they need to enhance their operations. By building partnerships and sharing knowledge, farmers can collectively advance digital adoption and benefit from improved productivity and market access. Encouraging open dialogue and cooperation among these stakeholders will be crucial for overcoming barriers and realizing the full potential of digital transformation in agriculture.
Shuaib S. Agaka is Tech Journalist and writes from PRNigeria Centre Kano
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The last victims released spent 707 days from June 17, 2021 – May 25, 2023
Baptist School Students, Kaduna (Freed)
Spent 850 Day from July 5, 2022 to November 2, 2023
