By Nkechi Eze
The Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria (ARCN) has taken a bold step toward reshaping the nation’s agricultural future with the official launch of the Nigeria Agricultural Intelligence Platform (NAIP), a transformative, technology-driven initiative designed to harness artificial intelligence, data analytics, and digital tools to boost productivity, enhance food security, and empower farmers across the country.
The landmark event, held in Abuja, featured the unveiling of a four-year roadmap for NAIP, developed by ARCN in partnership with PIXELS Solutions Limited and with the strong support of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (FMAFS). The initiative aims to redefine Nigeria’s agricultural ecosystem through smarter data use, digital connectivity, and evidence-based decision-making.
In his welcome remarks, the Executive Secretary of ARCN, Dr. Adamu Abubakar Dabban, described the launch as “a momentous step in Nigeria’s agricultural evolution” and a demonstration of the Council’s commitment to translating research and innovation into tangible national development outcomes.
“Today, through NAIP, we are determined to change the narrative. Guided by the Council’s mandate and inspired by the vision of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, we are setting in motion a people-centred, technology-driven, and youth-powered agricultural system,” Dr. Dabban declared.
He explained that the platform would build digital knowledge hubs connecting farmers, researchers, and policymakers; provide AI-powered advisory services delivering real-time farm solutions; expand mechanization and smart tool access; and deploy e-extension services that bring cutting-edge innovations directly to farmers’ doorsteps.
Dr. Dabban stated that the expected outcomes include the emergence of a robust AI-driven agricultural ecosystem, empowered farmers with improved market access, enhanced food security, and sustained economic growth through the practical application of research findings.
“NAIP is not just a platform; it is a people-centred, future-ready transformation agenda, one that gives farmers the power of information, enables researchers the power of collaboration, and unlocks opportunities for youth to lead the agricultural revolution,” he emphasized.
The ARCN boss commended the Honourable Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, for his visionary leadership and for steering the national focus toward research, innovation, and result-oriented agricultural transformation.
In his opening remarks, Senator Abubakar Kyari described NAIP as a “bold and strategic leap toward a digital, knowledge-driven, and youth-powered agricultural future.” He noted that the initiative aligns seamlessly with the objectives of the National Agricultural Technology and Innovation Policy (NATIP), which emphasizes innovation, sustainability, and commercialization of research outcomes to drive productivity.
The Minister added that the platform would integrate with ongoing government programmes such as the National Agricultural Growth Scheme and Agro-Pocket (NAGS-AP), National Fertilizer Quality Control and Distribution Programme, and e-extension and mechanization support programmes, ensuring that the digital transformation of agriculture yields measurable impact for farmers and communities.
“By integrating with these programmes, NAIP will accelerate digital transformation, enhance transparency, and maximize the returns on government investment in agriculture,” Senator Kyari stated.
He reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to supporting the platform to achieve its goals of stronger food systems, higher productivity, and expanded opportunities for farmers nationwide.
