The Federal Government has unveiled a digital initiative, the National Electronic Extension Platform (NEEP), to enhance agricultural service delivery, improve productivity, and strengthen the linkage between research institutions and farmers.
NEEP is designed to work with the National Agricultural Research and Extension System (NARES) and other relevant institutions to address the low extension agent-to-farmer ratio.
The digital platform will provide real-time access to vital agricultural information, offering an interactive and cost-effective alternative to traditional extension services while also mitigating security risks faced by field agents.
At the National Agricultural Extension Research Summit yesterday in Abuja, the Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Aliyu Abdullahi, highlighted the role of technology in improving labour productivity, particularly through the distribution of tractors for land preparation, planting, and harvesting.
The summit, he said, was part of the ministry’s ongoing efforts to leverage technology for agricultural extension services.
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Abdullahi said the Federal Department of Agricultural Extension, through the summit and the soft launching of NEEP, would strengthen agricultural service delivery across the country.
He said the ministry had deployed technologies to improve labour productivity through the distribution of tractors for land preparation, planting, and harvesting.
The ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Ogunbiyi Marcus, acknowledged the historical challenges faced by Nigeria’s extension services due to inconsistent policies, inadequate funding, and limited technological adoption.
“Despite past shortcomings, the use of digital technology, as outlined in the National Agricultural Technology and Innovation Policy (NATIP) 2022-2027, presents a significant opportunity for improvement. Adequate funding and effective deployment of digital tools will ensure greater results,” he said.
Also, the Director of the Federal Department of Agricultural Extension Service, Dr. Deola Tayo Lordbanjou, emphasised the critical role of agricultural extension services in translating research findings, innovative practices, and new technologies into practical solutions for farmers.