Food Security: VC Pushes Gender-Responsive, Tech-Driven Farming

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Food Security: VC Pushes Gender-Responsive, Tech-Driven Farming

Addressing Food Insecurity Through Innovative Agricultural Strategies

The Vice Chancellor of Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, Prof. Adamu Ahmed, has emphasized the urgent need for government and agricultural stakeholders to focus on climate-smart, digital, and gender-responsive innovations in agricultural extension. These strategies are crucial in addressing the persistent issue of food insecurity in Nigeria.

Prof. Ahmed highlighted that climate change is already significantly disrupting Nigeria's rainy seasons. According to reports from the National Agricultural Extension and Research Liaison Services (NAERLS), there have been erratic rainfall patterns, droughts, floods, and an increase in pest attacks across various states. He warned that without immediate action, these challenges could further exacerbate food shortages and economic instability.

The Role of Extension Officers

In his speech at the 2025 National Agricultural Extension Review and Planning Meeting, organized by NAERLS in Zaria, Prof. Ahmed urged extension officers to act as 'frontline defenders'. He stressed the importance of translating scientific research into practical, easy-to-use techniques such as agroforestry, conservation agriculture, and the use of drought-tolerant crop varieties. These methods can help farmers adapt to changing climatic conditions while maintaining productivity.

He also emphasized that the annual extension meeting should not be viewed merely as a ceremonial event but as a strategic platform for identifying challenges and implementing solutions that directly enhance farmers' productivity. This approach would ensure that the needs of smallholder farmers are addressed effectively.

Embracing Digital Innovations

Prof. Ahmed advocated for the development of affordable digital advisory systems that operate in locally understood languages. He called for improved rural internet access and the training of extension workers as 'digital intermediaries' who can assist farmers in applying data-driven decisions to their farming practices.

He pointed out that technology will only have a meaningful impact if it is accessible to all, including women, youth, and smallholder farmers. Ensuring that these groups can access and utilize technological tools without barriers is essential for achieving equitable agricultural growth.

Calls for Sector Reforms

In his address, Prof. Yusuf Sani, Director of NAERLS, called for deeper reforms in the extension sector to tackle the challenges posed by climate change, digital exclusion, and gender gaps. He noted that Nigeria has suffered losses exceeding ?700 billion due to flood-related crop damage over the past five years.

Sani mentioned that NAERLS is expanding its climate-smart advisories, promoting resilient seed varieties, and strengthening early-warning systems for farmers. These initiatives aim to provide timely and relevant information to help farmers mitigate the impacts of extreme weather events.

Strengthening Collaboration

Dr. Abubakar Dabban, Executive Secretary of the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria (ARCN), emphasized the need for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to build an innovative, inclusive, and climate-resilient extension system. Represented by Prof. Ado Yusuf, Executive Director of the Institute for Agricultural Research (IAR) Zaria, Dabban commended NAERLS for maintaining the annual platform, which he described as vital for reviewing extension performance and aligning national agricultural activities.

Dabban outlined ARCN's commitment to enhancing result-oriented research coordination, demand-driven innovations, climate-smart technologies, youth-friendly solutions, and digital extension tools. These efforts are aimed at improving food and nutrition security across the country.

Conclusion

As Nigeria faces increasing challenges from climate change and other environmental factors, the role of agricultural extension becomes more critical than ever. By prioritizing climate-smart innovations, embracing digital tools, and ensuring inclusivity, the agricultural sector can better support farmers and achieve long-term food security. The collaboration between universities, research institutions, and government bodies will be key in driving this transformation forward.



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