NITDA: Technology, AI Can Help Bridge Nigeria’s Agricultural Extension Gap

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has said technology, innovation and data can help bridge Nigeria’s agricultural extension gap by connecting farmers to timely, accurate and accessible advisory services.

The agency stated this through its Director of eGovernment, Engr. Salisu Kaka, who represented the Director-General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, CCIE.
Kaka stressed the need to leverage digital platforms to integrate systems and data currently operating in silos, saying interoperability, scalability and secure integration are critical to building an effective agricultural advisory infrastructure.

According to him, digital solutions can help reach more farmers without relying solely on increasing the number of agricultural extension workers.
He also highlighted the potential of emerging technologies, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI), to provide farmers with automated guidance, early warnings and data-driven solutions to emerging agricultural challenges.

Kaka said the use of such technologies could make agricultural advisory services more accessible and responsive to the needs of farmers.
He further reaffirmed NITDA’s readiness to partner with stakeholders in developing business-friendly policies and digital solutions aimed at making agricultural services more seamless, inclusive and productive.