FG to Implement Advanced Technology For Year-round Farming

The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, has declared that the Federal Government intends to implement advanced technology to facilitate year-round farming in the nation.

The Minister made this announcement while addressing reporters at the State House on Tuesday.

Kyari emphasized the necessity for improved efficiency in agricultural practices, underscoring the significance of accelerating land clearance, harvesting, and chemical application, which encompasses the utilization of pesticides and herbicides.

He clarified that the incorporation of drone technology would considerably enhance productivity, observing that a single drone could perform the task of hundreds of workers in just one day.

“We are going to utilize drones to expedite agricultural operations, harvest swiftly, and subsequently prepare the land for the next cycle of cultivation,” Kyari stated.

In conjunction with the technological advancements, the Minister disclosed plans to partner with the private sector to empower young individuals and motivate them to capitalize on the government’s mechanization initiative. This, he asserted, would contribute to the establishment of a dynamic agricultural workforce that will propel the sector forward.

Kyari also highlighted the necessity of transforming perceptions regarding agriculture. He urged farmers to regard agriculture not merely as a means to subsist but as a business opportunity capable of generating sustainable income.

The Minister noted that while providing agricultural inputs may have been the conventional method to support smallholder farmers, it might no longer suffice to incentivize increased production.

“It is crucial to alter the mindset of our farmers and assist them in recognizing that agriculture is not solely about subsistence but is also a lucrative enterprise. We must engage farmers in a manner that encourages private sector investment to bolster their agricultural endeavors,” he added.