BUK Launches AgriHacking 2.0 to curb agricultural challenges in dryland region

By Faridat Salifu

Bayero University Kano’s Centre for Dryland Agriculture (CDA) has launched AgriHacking 2.0 to empower innovators within the agricultural sector.

The Vice Chancellor of Bayero University Kano, Prof. Sagir Adamu Baffa, represented by Deputy Vice Chancellor Prof. Sani Muhammad Gumel, outlined the goals of AgriHacking 2.0 during the launch.

According to Baffa, this initiative aims to uncover and nurture new talents, promote sustainable agricultural solutions, and generate economic opportunities.

Prof. Baffa reflected on the success of last year’s AgriHacking competition, which saw 94 innovators apply. After a rigorous selection process, 10 candidates were chosen to present their ideas, leading to five startups that received mentorship and support, positioning their products for market.

He called on students, youths, and women to leverage this opportunity to showcase their talents and creativity saying, “I urge all our students, youths, and women to seize this incredible opportunity. Show us your commitment to making a difference in the field of agriculture,” he said.

The event’s chief host, CDA Director, highlighted the centre’s significant achievements in advancing Nigeria’s agricultural sector.

He noted a recent collaborative event organized by the CDA, which brought together stakeholders from business, agriculture, banking, and other sectors to explore how agriculture, academia, and industry can work together to drive national progress.

AgriHacking 2.0 builds on the success of its predecessor, aiming to continue fostering innovation and progress in agriculture. The competition is expected to attract a diverse group of participants eager to develop solutions to the unique challenges faced by Nigeria’s dryland regions.