The Nation Newspaper

Category: Agriculture

  • Minister calls for more investment in agricultural education

    Minister calls for more investment in agricultural education

    The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister of State, Mariya Mahmoud, has called for increased investment in agricultural education that effectively blends theoretical knowledge with practical enterprise, alongside improved access to financing and tools for young entrepreneurs.

    Mahmoud also advocated for the establishment of innovation hubs where young people could collaborate on sustainable solutions to modern agricultural challenges.

    Delivering her message at the Students for the Advancement of Global Entrepreneurship (SAGE) Nigeria 2025 National School Entrepreneurship and Awards in Abuja, the Minister urged educators, mentors, policymakers, and stakeholders to move beyond applause and translate their support into tangible actions that advance youth-led innovation.

    The minister, who was represented by her Special Assistant on Technical Matters, Michael Bawa, emphasized that Nigerian youths are not just leaders of tomorrow but innovators of today.

    She noted that their creativity and technological ingenuity hold the key to transforming agribusiness and securing Nigeria’s food future.

    Speaking on the theme, “Harnessing Youth Innovation for Sustainable Agribusinesses and Food Security,” the Minister stressed the urgent need to empower youth-driven agripreneurship as a core solution to the country’s evolving agricultural challenges.

    She commended SAGE Nigeria for its commitment to nurturing entrepreneurial ambition, noting its remarkable feat of winning the SAGE World Cup eight times in the last 12 years.

    According to a statement issued on Thursday by her Special Adviser, Media, Austine Elemue, the minister said; “this success underscores the exceptional potential of Nigerian youth on the global stage.”

    The minister observed that Nigeria’s development is being shaped by complex forces, including rapid population growth, climate change, rural unemployment, and food insecurity. 

    However, she maintained that the country is uniquely positioned to overcome these challenges through the innovative energy of its young people.

    Highlighting the transformative power of modern agriculture, Mahmoud pointed to the growing role of technologies such as drones, mobile apps, blockchain, and artificial intelligence in revolutionizing farming practices—turning agriculture into a sector of opportunity, not of last resort.

    She described the young entrepreneurs present as “architects of Nigeria’s future,” capable of turning scarcity into abundance and dependency into sustainability.

    Mahmoud called on all stakeholders to believe in the power of youth innovation and to commit to building a country where no Nigerian goes hungry and every young mind finds opportunity in agriculture.

    Earlier in his remarks, the National Chairman of SAGE Nigeria, Mr. Agwu Amogu, described the programme as a national celebration of young minds shaping the future through creativity, innovation, and enterprise.

    Read Also: Falling agricultural education raises fear over food security

    He applauded the bold teen entrepreneurs who, rather than succumbing to apathy, have chosen action and view the challenges around them not as obstacles, but as opportunities for meaningful impact.

    While expressing appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to youth empowerment and innovation, Amogu called on subnational governments and other stakeholders to adopt hands-on entrepreneurship education as a national development strategy.

    “Mr. President, your leadership offers hope to millions of young Nigerians. Let us work together to scale SAGE to every secondary school in Nigeria,” he stated.

    SAGE was founded in 2002 at California State University, Chico, USA. Since its launch in Nigeria in 2006, it has become one of the most effective platforms for youth empowerment, educational transformation, and community development.

    The programme is now active in over 32 countries, with Nigeria standing out among the top-performing nations.

  • Lagos, others partner on post-harvest losses

    Lagos, others partner on post-harvest losses

    Lagos State, in collaboration with various partners, is intensifying efforts to combat Nigeria’s alarming annual post-harvest losses, a crisis currently estimated at a colossal N3.5 trillion. This significant drain on the nation’s agricultural sector not only exacerbates food insecurity but also severely impacts the livelihoods of countless farmers and the broader economy.

    This was the spearpoint of the Ecotutu Chain in Agriculture Roundtable held yesterday in Lagos. The roundtable was themed “Accelerating Cold Chain Adoption for a Sustainable Agricultural Future in Nigeria.”

    Experts highlight that up to 40 per cent of harvested crops in Nigeria perish before reaching consumers, a figure that far exceeds the African average. The immense wastage is primarily attributed to inadequate storage facilities, inefficient transportation networks, limited access to modern preservation technologies, and a critical lack of cold chain infrastructure.

    READ ALSO: At Ikogosi Warm Springs, nature is king

    Lagos Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Abisola Olusanya, reiterated the determination of the government to support young innovators and startups to develop storage solutions and post-harvest technologies for farmers.

    She emphasised the importance of collective action from all levels of government, private enterprises, and consumers to build a more resilient and sustainable agricultural sector.

    According to her, the government is developing a unified database for farmers and the broader food industry. The purpose, she indicated, was to create a more efficient, transparent, and responsive food system within the state.

    The database will be a central repository of vital information, not only on farmers and their produce but also on food purchase and consumption patterns across Lagos.

    She indicated that data will be gathered from the Central Food Systems and Logistics hub in the Epe on completion and existing and proposed food hubs. The real-time information, she maintained, will provide invaluable insights into the flow of food from farm to table.

    She highlighted the critical need for reliable data in addressing food security challenges and optimising agricultural productivity.

    She commended Ecotutu for its solar powered cold chain facility that has helped to reduce food losses, adding that the government appreciated other such efforts towards creating a more robust and responsive food system for Lagos, promising enhanced food security for the rapidly growing population.

    The Deputy Consul General of the Netherlands in Lagos. Peter Keulers  said as part of efforts to provide market-led solutions to postharvest losses, the Netherlands government in partnership with Lagos State, developed and launched the Polar Store, an innovative solar-powered cold storage infrastructure in the state. He said the Polar Store serves as both a demonstration site and a training hub, showcasing the potential of renewable energy in cold storage applications.

    He said that post-harvest losses have remained a major challenge confronting the Nigerian agricultural sector for so long.

    In a spotlight session, the Managing Director, Bank of Agriculture, Jide Sotinrin, said there were ongoing reforms to improve access to finance for farmers.

    He said the bank was   putting  in place a system which will enable faster processing of agricultural loans.

    According to him, digitalisation of agricultural lending will ensure instant doorstep delivery of credit to farmers while improving the advancing the bank ‘s mission of fostering rural prosperity.

    He said the bank will raise the N250,000 maximum limit micro loans  for  smallholder farmers, in the light of the realities in the industry.

    According to him, the bank will continue to prioritize responsive agricultural finance , aimed at fostering a robust rural economy, alleviating poverty, and promoting self-reliance through agribusiness.

    The Managing Director, Ecotutu, Babajide Oluwase said the Cold Chain in Agriculture Roundtable 2025 roundtable aims to address post-harvest losses and fortify Nigeria’s food supply chain.

    The roundtable, he indicated ,brought  together important players from the agricultural value chain, to discuss scalable solutions to Nigeria’s growing food preservation problems.

  • African leaders urge youths to lead in agriculture health

    African leaders urge youths to lead in agriculture health

    African leaders have underscored the urgency to equip the new generations in agriculture and healthcare to climate resilience states in Africa’s vast human capital, stating the need to empower them to drive structural transformation and global engagement on equal terms.

    This was disclosed in a virtual global forum hosted by the former Nigerian Permanent Representative to the United Nations and the 74th President of the UN General Assembly, H.E. Prof. Tijjani Muhammad-Bande, with the theme, “Africa Rising” on Africa Day 2025, with Innovation, Heritage, and Hope” in Washington, D.C. as he addresses issues like democracy, migration, population growth, and regional peace and security.

    In a statement signed by Joi John Co – Founder, Belcrest Institute, Migration is not alien to Africa, the real task is to build systems that make staying as viable and rewarding as going. Africa is not a passive participant in global affairs, we are contributors to world civilizations past, present, and future.

    Read Also: FG to empower 150 million affected by insecurity through agriculture

    In his remarks, Prof. Muhammad-Bande emphasized the importance of Agenda 2063, the African Union’s strategic framework for inclusive growth and sustainable development. There should be
    a renewed continental focus on self-reliance, democratic governance adapted to African contexts, and long-term investments in education, science, and innovation.

    He also highlighted the central role of Africa’s youth,”the urgency of equipping new generations to lead in sectors ranging from agriculture and health to climate resilience and diplomacy. Africa’s vast human capital, he noted, must be empowered to drive structural transformation and global engagement on equal terms”.

    On conflict and governance, Prof. Muhammed-Bande spoke on the ongoing crisis in Sudan, advocating for stronger, more coordinated interventions by the African Union and regional partners. He also reaffirmed the need for Africa to shape global responses to climate change and public health in line with its own realities and priorities.

  • Fed Govt targets milk production of 1.4MT in five years

    Fed Govt targets milk production of 1.4MT in five years

    The Federal Government has unveiled an ambitious plan to double Nigeria’s annual milk production from 700,000 metric tonnes to 1.4 million metric tonnes within the next five years, leveraging innovation, youth engagement, and strategic investments in the livestock sector.

    Speaking at the commemoration of World Milk day in Abuja yesterday, Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Maiha, said the plan is both “ambitious but achievable,” citing Nigeria’s existing livestock base of over 20.9 million cattle, 60 million sheep, and 1.4 million goats.

    The minister emphasised that increased milk production would not only improve nutritional outcomes particularly for children, but also create business opportunities for entrepreneurs, traders, veterinarians, and nutritionists, while strengthening Nigeria’s foreign reserves and food security.

    Speaking on the private sector’s efforts to boost milk production in the country, Maiha commended Nestlé Nigeria for its significant contributions to the country’s dairy sector through the Nestlé Dairy Development Project (NLDP), launched in 2019.

    He praised the company’s commitment to sustainable livestock development.

    “Since its inception, the NLDP has facilitated the establishment of 83 dairy cooperatives, directly benefiting more than 3,000 local milk producers. The project has also aggregated over one million liters of raw milk, marking a key milestone in Nigeria’s drive toward dairy self-sufficiency.

    READ ALSO: FULL STEPS: How to generate e-affidavit for change of name, loss of SIM, others

    “Through strategic partnerships and sustained investment, Nestlé has demonstrated what’s possible when the private sector works hand-in-hand with communities,” said Minister Maiha.

    Nestlé has trained over 2,000 milk producers in dairy best practices and ensured animal health through the vaccination of more than 36,744 cattle. It has also addressed critical infrastructure gaps by constructing 19 boreholes and 28 water troughs, improving water access for both livestock and communities.

    These interventions, he said, have led to marked improvements with milk rejection rates falling from 12 per cent in 2021 to just five per cent in 2024. Meanwhile, the average monthly income of participating milk producers has risen from N70,000 in 2019 to N250,000 in 2024.

    He added that the  newly launched Nestlé Dairy Demonstration Farm showcases best-in-class methods for boosting milk yields, with local cattle now producing over 10 liters of milk daily up from an average of just 1 liter.

    Impressed by the farm’s potential as a national resource, Maiha extended an invitation to Nestlé to convert it into a formal training institute for Nigerian dairy farmers.

    Meanwhile, Nestlé in a statement issued on Monday noted that it is collaborating with the Ministry of Livestock Development Collaborate to Launch Dairy Technical Skills Development Program

    This initiative, formalised through a Letter of Intent (LOI) signed during the commemoration of World Milk Day 2025, is aimed at  enhancing the quality and volume of milk production in Nigeria, addressing critical needs within the dairy sector.

    The LOI, it noted, reflects a shared commitment to develop mid-level technical and vocational skills essential for strengthening Nigeria’s dairy value chain, ensuring food security, improving nutrition, and fostering sustainable livelihoods.

    According to Nestlé, the partnership will focus on establishing capacity-building programs centered on milk production, processing, hygiene, and management.

    “Promoting industry-relevant skills through training modules developed in collaboration with stakeholders. Enhancing milk quality and productivity across local dairy clusters through knowledge sharing and technical support.

    Speaking, Managing Director and CEO of Nestlé Nigeria PLC, Wassim Elhusseini,  said the organization has built capacity to provide targeted training programs on best practices in dairy farming adapted to the Nigerian context.

    “This is why the Letter of Intent signifies more than a formal agreement; it reflects our mutual dedication to bridge the gap in mid-level technical skills within the dairy sector to meet the growing demands of the market. We are confident that this will have a positive impact on our communities by creating more jobs, improving livelihoods, and supporting a stronger economy.”

  • FG targets doubling milk production to 1.4m tonnes in five years

    FG targets doubling milk production to 1.4m tonnes in five years

    The federal government has unveiled a bold initiative to double Nigeria’s annual milk production from 700,000 metric tonnes to 1.4 million metric tonnes within the next five years. The plan aims to harness innovation, youth participation, and targeted investments in the livestock sector.

    Speaking at the World Milk Day celebration in Abuja, Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Maiha, described the goal as “ambitious but achievable,” noting Nigeria’s substantial livestock resources, including over 20.9 million cattle, 60 million sheep, and 1.4 million goats.

    Maiha said the initiative would not only enhance child nutrition but also open up economic opportunities for entrepreneurs, veterinarians, nutritionists, and traders, while contributing to food security and strengthening foreign reserves.

    The minister also lauded Nestlé Nigeria for its role in advancing dairy production through the Nestlé Dairy Development Project (NLDP), launched in 2019, and commended the company’s ongoing commitment to sustainable livestock development.

    “Since its inception, the NLDP has facilitated the establishment of 83 dairy cooperatives, directly benefiting more than 3,000 local milk producers. The project has also aggregated over one million litres of raw milk, marking a key milestone in Nigeria’s drive toward dairy self-sufficiency.

    “Through strategic partnerships and sustained investment, Nestlé has demonstrated what’s possible when the private sector works hand-in-hand with communities,” said Minister Maiha.

    Nestlé has trained over 2,000 milk producers in dairy best practices and ensured animal health through the vaccination of more than 36,744 cattle. It has also addressed critical infrastructure gaps by constructing 19 boreholes and 28 water troughs, improving water access for both livestock and communities.

    These interventions, he said, have led to marked improvements, with milk rejection rates falling from 12% in 2021 to just 5% in 2024. Meanwhile, the average monthly income of participating milk producers has risen from ₦70,000 in 2019 to ₦250,000 in 2024.

    He added that the newly launched Nestlé Dairy Demonstration Farm showcases best-in-class methods for boosting milk yields, with local cattle now producing over 10 litres of milk daily, up from an average of just 1 litre.

    Impressed by the farm’s potential as a national resource, Maiha extended an invitation to Nestlé to convert it into a formal training institute for Nigerian dairy farmers.

    Read Also: Kano cow milk market boom excites traders

    Meanwhile, Nestlé, in a statement issued on Monday, noted that it is collaborating with the Ministry of Livestock Development to launch the Dairy Technical Skills Development Program 

    This initiative, formalised through a Letter of Intent (LOI) signed during the commemoration of World Milk Day 2025, is aimed at enhancing the quality and volume of milk production in Nigeria, addressing critical needs within the dairy sector.

     The LOI, it noted, reflects a shared commitment to develop mid-level technical and vocational skills essential for strengthening Nigeria’s dairy value chain, ensuring food security, improving nutrition, and fostering sustainable livelihoods.

    According to Nestlé, the partnership will focus on establishing capacity-building programs centred on milk production, processing, hygiene, and management.

    “Promoting industry-relevant skills through training modules developed in collaboration with stakeholders. Enhancing milk quality and productivity across local dairy clusters through knowledge sharing and technical support.

     Speaking, Managing Director and CEO of Nestlé Nigeria PLC, Wassim Elhusseini, said the organisation has built the capacity to provide targeted training programs on best practices in dairy farming adapted to the Nigerian context.

    “This is why the Letter of Intent signifies more than a formal agreement; it reflects our mutual dedication to bridge the gap in mid-level technical skills within the dairy sector to meet the growing demands of the market. We are confident that this will have a positive impact on our communities by creating more jobs, improving livelihoods, and supporting a stronger economy.”

  • ‘How pineapple farming can be attractive to youths’

    ‘How pineapple farming can be attractive to youths’

    An Agriprenure, Segun Alabi, has affirmed that one of the ways pineapple farming can be attractive to young people is for the government to finance young entrepreneurs towards achieving self-sustainability.

    Alabi called on both the federal and state governments to provide an enabling environment that will make Nigerians, especially the youths to embrace agriculture, through the provision of security and social amenities that will discourage rural-urban migration.

    Alabi, who is the CEO of Davidorlah Nigeria Limited and founder of Davidorlah Farm, made the call while allocating pineapple farms to some farmers, who had subscribed to phase 2 of his pineapple farms plantation, located in Ago-Iwoye, Ijebu North local government area of Ogun State.

    He noted that the allocation marks a key milestone in the company’s mission to position Nigeria as a leading pineapple exporter in the world in the next few years.

    While describing pineapple farming as a lucrative business, Alabi noted that pineapple farms are immune to destruction by cattle, unlike other crops.

    He said, “Phase 1 has been sold out, and in Phase 2, the road construction is being done by the World Bank. Where we are at, the Davidolar farm estate is a good farm estate.  The demand for pineapple around the world is increasing on a daily basis.

    “If Nigeria become the highest producer of pineapple in the world, supplying all other countries around the world, I think it’s the best thing our government can do for our youth because the demand is there.

    “If you can create a land that can produce good pineapple, then it is good for us, and the government can just empower the youth as in finance. The major thing is finance: when young people have money, they can do anything.

    Speaking further, he said Davidolar Farm is positioned to train people as well as become the largest exporter of pineapple.

    He said, “We have trained over 500 people. The value chain in pineapple is so wide.

    Read Also: FG moves to curb illegal migration, economic desperation among youths

    “Pineapple cultivation has positive socio-economic implications and creates jobs for many people in rural areas, thereby contributing to reducing unemployment and poverty”.

    While explaining the value chain in pineapple, he noted that apart from using the fruit for juice, its peel can be used for shoes, clothes, bio-fuel production, creation of renewable energy, and cloth production as well as shoes.

    The entrepreneur also disclosed that his firm is in partnership with investors in the area of turning pineapple waste into wealth from the Netherlands and Indonesia to solve the challenge of the importation of fertiliser.

  • ‘Africa’s agricultural sector must be optimally used to reduce poverty’

    ‘Africa’s agricultural sector must be optimally used to reduce poverty’

    A study by DHL Express Sub-Saharan Africa, in collaboration with the Gordon Institute of Business Science Centre for African Management and Markets (CAMM), has identified increased agric productivity as requirement in reducing poverty in Africa. This research, according  to a white paper, highlighted the critical role of technology, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), in enhancing agricultural productivity and reducing poverty across the continent.

    According to the African Agritech: the State of Play and Potential for Prosperity report revealed that improvements in agricultural productivity have a disproportionately positive effect on poverty alleviation in developing nations. A 1% increase in agricultural total factor productivity (TFP) correlates with a 1% decline in the population living in extreme poverty, highlighting agriculture’s potential as a powerful tool for economic development. As Africa’s population continues to grow, the agricultural sector stands at a crossroads, facing both challenges and unprecedented opportunities. The industry is vital for sustainable development and economic growth in Africa. Agriculture has long been a cornerstone of the continent’s economy, accounting for approximately 15% of output, which is significantly higher than the global average of 5%.

    For Africa to thrive, its agricultural sector must be optimally used to drive growth, especially given the rapid population increase projected for the region. The paper highlights the need for the industry to consider innovative models and management strategies. Innovation and technology are crucial for enhancing agricultural output and efficiency, which can lead to improved economic conditions across the continent.

    READ ALSO: Celebrating President Tinubu’s remarkable two years in office

    “This paper highlights our commitment to supporting sustainable growth and innovation in the agricultural sector, particularly on the African continent. DHL’s purpose revolves around connecting people and improving lives – as the world’s largest logistics company, it is our responsibility to lead the way and guide the logistics industry into a sustainable future and ultimately ensure that we make a positive difference in the communities in which we operate. Through this paper, we hope to provide a glimpse of what lies ahead for the industry and demonstrate our commitment to sustainable economic growth,” said Hennie Heymans, DHL Express SSA CEO. “We knew agritech was a powerful driver of prosperity, but we were impressed with what we unearthed during the research. Tech is being used in amazing ways to improve everything from soil management and crop spraying to transportation and fire detection,” said Ian Macleod, a member of the CAMM research team.

    DHL Express SSA recently launched a new DHL Agri-Express solution, a time-definite express packaging solution developed to support Agricultural SMEs in Sub-Saharan Africa with the shipping of avocados. This innovative and sustainable solution eliminates the need for active cold chain shipping by employing cutting-edge alternative technology. Specifically designed for small sample shipments of 6 to 50 avocados, this packaging solution enables customers to leverage the DHL Express network to send samples to buyers in international markets with ease and speed.

  • NiMet DG joins stakeholders at “Climate Resilience in Action” symposium

    NiMet DG joins stakeholders at “Climate Resilience in Action” symposium

    The Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), Prof. Charles Anosike, has underscored the critical role of partnership and data-driven decision-making in building climate resilience across the agricultural sector. 

    Speaking at the “Climate Resilience in Action: Collaborative Approaches to Adaptation” symposium on Tuesday in Abuja, jointly organised by The Nigerian Meteorological Organisation (NiMet),  Michigan State University (MSU), Sahel Consulting Agriculture and Nutrition Ltd., and the African Agricultural Technology Foundation, Anosike highlighted the growing threat of unpredictable weather patterns and extreme events.

     “We must work together—public agencies, research institutions, and private-sector innovators—to deliver timely, localised climate services that farmers and policymakers can act upon,” he said. “Only through collaboration can we turn data into practical solutions that safeguard livelihoods and food security.”

    He noted that Nigeria’s agriculture remains highly vulnerable to droughts, floods, and heat stress. “Expanding our observation network and integrating real-time meteorological data into agricultural advisories will reduce losses and improve yields,” 

    The NiMet CEO called for the adoption of cutting-edge tools—such as AI-augmented forecasting models and mobile decision support tools to  help accelerate climate action and enhance resilience. 

    Read Also: CGIAR partners NiMet on weather forecasts for farmers

    He emphasised that artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionising weather forecasting and playing a crucial role in building climate resilience. 

    However, data collection remains a huge challenge in our region as indicated by ECOWAS Hydromet Initiative. 

    More than 60% of weather data collection is done manually and relies on non-professionals, leading to lower quality data, he lamented. 

    He further pointed out increasing the network of Automatic Weather Stations (AWS) represents one of our most vital tools to address manual data collection and improve data quality in Nigeria.

    He stated the current network of observation infrastructure is not sufficient to cover over 924, 000 square kilometers land area. 

    Anosike reaffirmed NiMet’s commitment to partnering with all stakeholders to ensure that every Nigerian—regardless of location—has access to life-saving weather and climate information.

  • Agribusiness in Nigeria can drive innovation, job creation, says David Galadima

    Agribusiness in Nigeria can drive innovation, job creation, says David Galadima

    David Galadima, the founder and CEO of Graemoh Foods Ltd, is a visionary leader who has made significant strides in Nigeria’s agribusiness sector. His company, Graemoh Foods, has evolved from a small local venture into an internationally recognized player in the food production industry. 

    Through his innovative leadership, Galadima has not only expanded his company’s reach but has also become a champion for job creation, technological advancement, and sustainable practices within the agricultural sector.

    In Nigeria, agribusiness has traditionally been dominated by smallholder farmers who operate at subsistence levels. However, Galadima believes that innovation holds the key to transforming this sector into a global powerhouse.

    “Nigeria has immense potential to lead in agribusiness,” says Galadima. “We have the resources, the land, and the people. The challenge lies in transitioning from small-scale operations to large, efficient agribusinesses that can compete globally.”

    Innovation: The Catalyst for Growth in Agribusiness

    One of the cornerstones of Graemoh Foods’ success is its emphasis on innovation. Under Galadima’s leadership, the company has introduced several cutting-edge technologies that have revolutionized food production in Nigeria. The development of the Recirculatory Aquaculture System (RAS) for sustainable fish farming and the creation of a Two-stage stainless steel honey filtration and dispensing unit are just two examples of how Graemoh Foods has set new standards in the industry.

    “Innovation is not just about creating new products; it’s about improving processes and finding smarter ways to work,” David explains. “We’ve implemented technologies that reduce waste, conserve water, and increase efficiency, which has allowed us to scale our operations and reduce costs. This focus on innovation has helped us compete on the global stage and drive growth within the Nigerian agribusiness sector.”

    David’s commitment to innovation has also extended to his collaboration with over 500 smallholder farmers. Through these partnerships, Graemoh Foods has provided farmers with access to modern technologies, training, and better market opportunities. 

    By empowering smallholder farmers, Graemoh Foods has not only increased its own production capacity but has also helped improve the livelihoods of farmers, creating a more resilient and sustainable agricultural ecosystem.

    Job Creation: Building a Sustainable Workforce

    David’s vision extends beyond the success of Graemoh Foods Ltd. He recognizes the role agribusiness can play in solving Nigeria’s unemployment challenges. In a country where youth and women make up a significant portion of the unemployed population, agribusiness offers a powerful solution. 

    “Agribusiness has the potential to create millions of jobs across various sectors,” he says. “From farming to processing, logistics, and retail, the opportunities are endless. By focusing on innovation and scaling operations, we can create sustainable employment opportunities that uplift entire communities.”

    Graemoh Foods has already created several jobs and the impact of its operations extends far beyond its own workforce. The company’s inclusive hiring practices prioritize women, youth, and marginalized groups, helping to bridge the economic gap in rural communities. 

    “We’ve made it a point to create jobs in communities that need them the most,” Galadima shares. “It’s not just about providing employment; it’s about giving people the tools and resources they need to succeed.”

    The company’s commitment to smallholder farmers further enhances its social impact. By offering farmers access to modern technologies and training, Graemoh Foods is helping to build a more resilient agricultural ecosystem that supports local economies. 

    “When we help farmers grow their businesses, they are not only more productive but also more financially stable,” says Galadima. “This creates a ripple effect in the community, where everyone benefits.”

    The Role of Government in Agribusiness Growth

    While innovation and job creation are key drivers of success in the agribusiness sector, David also believes that government support is crucial. He advocates for policies that improve infrastructure, provide access to financing, and incentivize innovation.

    “The government can play a major role in supporting agribusiness by improving infrastructure like roads, electricity, and storage facilities,” David says. “These basic resources are essential for the success of agribusinesses, and without them, it’s difficult to scale up.”

    Galadima also calls for stronger support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the agribusiness sector, particularly in terms of access to funding. 

    “Many small agribusinesses struggle to secure financing, and this is where the government can step in to help,” he explains. “Whether through grants, loans, or partnerships with private investors, access to capital is essential for growth and innovation in the sector.”

    Towards Food Security: The Future of Nigeria’s Agribusiness

    As Nigeria’s population continues to grow, ensuring food security is becoming an increasingly urgent issue. Galadima believes that agribusinesses will be central to addressing this challenge. “The future of food security in Nigeria depends on increasing productivity, processing and storage while minimizing waste,” he says. “By adopting sustainable practices and leveraging technology, we can produce more food while preserving natural resources.”

    Graemoh Foods has already implemented several measures to improve its sustainability, including water-saving systems and waste reduction techniques. “Our goal is not just to produce more food but to do it in a way that doesn’t harm the environment,” Galadima adds. “We want to set an example for other businesses to follow.”

    Galadima also emphasizes the importance of local food processing in achieving food security. “Nigeria has the potential to be a major exporter of agricultural products, but we need to invest in food processing and value-added production,” he explains. “This will create more jobs, increase local production capacity, and reduce our dependence on food imports.”

    Looking to the Future

    As Graemoh Foods continues to scale its operations and introduce new innovations, David Galadima remains committed to driving positive change in Nigeria’s agribusiness sector. His work demonstrates the power of innovation, strategic partnerships, and sustainable practices in transforming an entire industry.

    “We’re just at the beginning,” Galadima concludes. “There’s so much potential in agribusiness, and I’m excited about what the future holds. With the right focus on innovation, job creation, and sustainability, Nigeria’s agribusiness sector can become a global leader.”

    Through his leadership, David is not only driving the growth of Graemoh Foods Ltd but also playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of Nigeria’s agribusiness industry, with a vision that extends far beyond profitability to address critical issues such as food security, job creation, and sustainable development.

  • PricePally Impact Summit pushes innovation in agriculture

    PricePally Impact Summit pushes innovation in agriculture

    The 2025 edition of the PricePally Impact Summit was held on Thursday and Friday, May 22 and 23 in Lagos with a powerful theme: “From Farm to Table – The Future of Fresh Foods: Sustainable, Affordable, and Accessible.” 

    The two-day summit brought together farmers, policymakers, tech innovators, and thought leaders from across Nigeria to shape the next frontier of the country’s food ecosystem.

    Hosted by PricePally, a pioneering agri-tech company known for leveraging data and technology to transform food access, the summit served as a vital platform for addressing Nigeria’s food security and agricultural sustainability.

    In her keynote address, Hon. Abisola Olusanya, Lagos State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, emphasized the importance of solving agricultural challenges at the grassroots. 

    “Our commitment in Lagos under the leadership of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu remains unwavering. We are determined to build resilient food systems that not only feed Lagos, but set an example for the entire country,” she stated.

    The summit also featured Dr. Rufus Idris, Country Director of AGRA Nigeria, who presented critical insights into the evolving agricultural landscape. His data-driven presentation highlighted urgent areas for intervention and opportunity in Nigeria’s food value chain.

    Read Also: Food security: Olukoya, MFM train, empower youths in agriculture

    Luther Lawoyin, CEO of PricePally, delivered a compelling session on the strategic role of data in shaping agricultural outcomes. “Data is not just a tool—it’s a lifeline for smarter, faster, and more sustainable decisions in agriculture,” Lawoyin remarked.

    Opening the summit, Jummai Abalaka, COO of PricePally, welcomed attendees with a passionate address, setting the tone for two days of impactful discussions. “This summit is about reimagining the journey of food—from the soil it’s grown in to the homes it nourishes,” she said.

    From logistics to technology, every panel and presentation underscored a unified mission: making fresh food systems more equitable, efficient, and environmentally responsible. The PricePally Impact Summit also served as a recognition platform for the everyday heroes—farmers, innovators, and partners—who are reshaping Nigeria’s agricultural sector.

    As conversations continue on Day 2, participants remain optimistic about the future. With visionary leadership, cross-sector collaboration, and a tech-enabled approach, the path from farm to table in Nigeria is set for a transformative shift.