Expert Advocates Agricultural Innovation, Technology To Drive Productivity

An expert at the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD), Prof. Olalekan Akinbo, has called for adoption of agricultural innovation and technology to increase agricultural productivity, sustainability and growth in the agricultural sector in Nigeria.

Akinbo, Technical Lead, Genome Editing Programme of AUDA-NEPAD Centre of Excellence in Science, Technology and Innovation, stated this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday in Abuja.

The expert said agricultural innovation and technology adoption play a crucial role in transforming the agricultural sector.

He said farmers can increase their productivity, enhance food security, and contribute to rural development by embracing innovative technologies

“Nigeria, blessed with a large agricultural base, promoting innovation and technology adoption, is key to addressing challenges, such as low productivity, post-harvest losses and limited access to markets.

”Agricultural innovation and technology adoption can significantly increase productivity by improving farming practices, enhancing crop yield and optimising resource utilisation ,” Akinbo said.

According to him, genome editing is an example of innovative technology that can boost productivity and efficiency in Nigerian agriculture.

The expert said that with a growing population and increasing food demand, ensuring food security was a critical challenge for Nigeria.

Akinbo said that sustainable agricultural practices were essential for preserving the environment, conserving natural resources and mitigating climate change.