Agriculture has always been the backbone of human civilisation. From the dawn of time, the shift from hunting and gathering to farming marked a turning point in our history. Today, as Nigeria faces mounting food insecurity, climate change, and economic challenges, we stand on the cusp of another agricultural revolution—one driven by technology, innovation, and necessity. The real question is not whether we need this transformation but how swiftly we can achieve it before the looming crisis spirals out of control.
The current food security situation in Nigeria is alarming. As Chi Lael, a spokesperson for the World Food Programme, aptly put it, “Never before have there been so many people in Nigeria without food.” UN agencies predict that by 2025, a staggering 33 million Nigerians could face food insecurity. This crisis is compounded by record inflation, climate shocks, and persistent conflicts that have disrupted farming activities across the country. Meanwhile, the United Nations Population Fund projects that Nigeria’s population will swell to between 377 million and 401 million by 2050. How will we feed this growing nation if we fail to modernise our agricultural sector?
One undeniable fact is that technology holds the key to Nigeria’s agricultural transformation. Digital agriculture, precision farming, and innovative irrigation techniques are no longer luxuries but necessities. At Zubara Global Services, we have embraced this reality by implementing smart farming solutions, such as drip irrigation and mulching, which optimise soil health and water usage. These methods have yielded remarkable results, improving crop monitoring, maximising resources, and ultimately boosting productivity. The days of relying solely on outdated farming techniques must come to an end if we are serious about achieving food security.
Our journey at Zubara has been nothing short of transformative. In just two years, we have attracted over 250 million naira in agricultural investments, generating returns exceeding 100 million naira. Our approach extends beyond farming—we have built an ecosystem that integrates agribusiness training, modern livestock management, and market accessibility. Challenges are inevitable, as we have seen with crop diseases affecting some of our farms, but these setbacks have only strengthened our resolve. By developing strategic responses to such crises, we have created a resilient model for sustainable agricultural growth.
Education is a crucial pillar of this transformation. Recognising the need to build capacity in the sector, we established the Zubara Agricultural Training Institute, where we train the next generation of agricultural leaders. Our recent affiliation with the University of Ilorin ensures that our training programmes meet the highest standards, equipping students with the knowledge and practical skills necessary to thrive in modern agribusiness. With over 30 students currently undergoing intensive training, we are investing in the future of Nigerian agriculture, one leader at a time.
Looking ahead, the opportunities for growth and collaboration in the agricultural sector are immense. We are actively exploring investments in seed production, advanced farming equipment, and large-scale mechanisation. Our doors are open to partnerships that align with our mission of fostering food security in Nigeria.
The evidence is clear—technology-driven agricultural transformation is not just possible; it is already happening. But for this revolution to reach its full potential, collective action is required.
The cost of inaction is too great to ignore. Every delay in modernising our agricultural systems translates into lost productivity, wasted resources, and deepening food insecurity. We have the technology, the market demand is undeniable, and the stakes cannot be higher. The only missing piece is the collective will to implement change at scale. Imagine a Nigeria where food is abundant, farmers thrive using cutting-edge technology, and agriculture becomes a cornerstone of economic prosperity. This is not an unattainable dream—it is within our grasp if we act decisively.
Will we be the generation that transitions Nigerian agriculture from subsistence to abundance? The choices we make today will determine the future our children inherit. This revolution is not just about feeding a nation; it is about securing future generations’ survival and prosperity. The time for action is now.
•Promise Chizara is the chief executive officer of Zubara Global Services Ltd
