In a major step toward revolutionizing its agricultural sector, the Federal Government of Nigeria has officially endorsed the Digital Village Initiative (DVI) by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). This transformative project aims to drive sustainable food production by integrating digital technologies across the entire agricultural value chain.
Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, announced the endorsement during the DVI inception workshop held in Lagos. He described the initiative as a timely and strategic solution to modernize Nigeria’s agrifood systems, improve productivity, and enhance climate resilience.
> “This marks the beginning of a bold journey to embed innovation, data, and adaptive technologies into Nigeria’s agricultural development agenda,” said Kyari.
The Digital Village Initiative places digitalization at the heart of rural development, addressing both on-farm operations and wider socio-economic challenges. Supported by FAO’s Digital Innovation Strategy (DIS), the DVI seeks to transform sub-Saharan Africa’s agrifood landscape through smart farming practices and inclusive technologies.
Harnessing AI and Data for Precision Farming
Kyari noted that the global digital agriculture sector is expanding rapidly, driven by technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), data analytics, and mobile platforms. These tools, he explained, enhance precision farming, streamline resource use, and boost yields.
At the core of Nigeria’s commitment is the creation of a National Integrated Digital Agriculture Platform, a centralized digital infrastructure designed to connect all stakeholders, including farmers, researchers, processors, retailers, and consumers.
> “Our goal is a digitally enabled, inclusive, and sustainable agricultural system that ensures food and nutrition security, empowers youth and women, and fosters national prosperity,” Kyari added.
The DVI will:
Digitize farmer registration and farmland mapping using geospatial technology
Strengthen agricultural research and innovation systems
Improve extension services and decision-making with real-time data
Enhance market access and supply chain coordination
FAO Reaffirms Support for Nigeria’s Agricultural Transformation
Mr. Koffy Kouacou, FAO Representative in Nigeria and ECOWAS, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to working with Nigeria to implement the DVI successfully.
> “This initiative will revolutionize agriculture through knowledge exchange, technology adoption, and farmer empowerment,” Kouacou stated.
He praised Nigeria’s strong policy foundation, including the Digital Agriculture Strategy 2020–2030 and the National Digital Economy Policy, as essential frameworks for achieving sustainable agricultural growth and global competitiveness.
FAO’s collaboration with Nigeria aims to optimize resources, strengthen food systems, and equip farmers with the digital skills needed to thrive in a modern economy.
Credit: Nairametrics News
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