FG Launches DVI to Transform Agriculture in Nigeria

By Abdullahi Lukman
The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, officially launched the Food and Agriculture Organization’s (FAO) Digital Village Initiative (DVI) at an inception workshop in Lagos on Thursday, May 8.
The initiative aims to digitize Nigeria’s agricultural sector and empower rural farming communities with modern technologies.
Senator Kyari emphasized that the DVI aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the national goal to end hunger by leveraging innovation and technology.
He underscored the importance of tools like artificial intelligence, data analytics, and mobile platforms in boosting productivity, reducing waste, and enhancing agricultural resilience.
A central component of the initiative is the creation of a National Integrated Digital Agriculture Platform, which will connect stakeholders across the agricultural value chain, from farmers to retailers.
The platform will enable data-driven planning, climate-smart farming, and improve market access.
Senator Kyari also announced a partnership with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) to establish a national farmer registry using the National Identification Number (NIN).
A pilot project is already underway in Nasarawa State, with plans for nationwide expansion.
The minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to digital inclusion for all Nigerian farmers, highlighting the necessity of technology in achieving food security and economic growth.
He also expressed gratitude to the FAO for their support and urged all stakeholders to collaborate on the initiative’s success.
The FAO Digital Village Initiative is to transform Nigerian agriculture, fostering prosperity, resilience, and food security through digital innovation.