The Permanent Secretary of the Nigerian Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Marcus Ogunbiyi has announced that the Federal Government is strengthening innovation financing, technology adoption and mechanisation to accelerate the country’s food security agenda and expand global agribusiness investment opportunities.
Speaking at the opening of the 2nd Farm, Food and Allied Technologies Expo (FARMFATECH) Organised by the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry in collaboration with Autodex Nigeria Limited in Abuja, Dr Ogunbiyi said the theme: Agricultural Transformation: Achieving Food Security through Innovative Technologies — aligns directly with Nigeria’s strategic push to scale non-oil export capacity and modernise agriculture using digital systems.
Dr. Marcus Ogunbiyi who was represented by the Director Federal Food and Drug Authority of the Ministry, Abubakar Musa said the Ministry has now placed technology at the centre of its National Agricultural Technology and Innovation Policy (NATIP) — linking research, science and innovation for farmers across the entire value chain.
“Unprecedented and unwavering commitment on the part of the federal government in Agricultural Finance has seen to the capitalization of the Bank of Agriculture to the tune of N1.5 trillion to ensure that agriculture is adequately financed.”
Agricultural transformation
In his remarks the President of the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI), Dr Emeka Obegolu, stated that Nigeria must treat technology as the new driver of agricultural transformation — warning that the country cannot solve its food crisis without mechanisation, digitalisation and private sector-led innovation.
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Dr Obegolu who was represented by President of Agriculture, Mr Olasetemi Bode Thompson declared that the event was not just an exhibition, but movement toward achieving food sufficiency and food sovereignty.
According to him, “At ACCI, we believe that technology is the new tractor, it drives growth, efficiency, and competitiveness.
“Mechanisation enables large-scale production, reduces labour intensity, and enhances efficiency across the entire value chain. It also mitigates some of the challenges posed by insecurity and limited access to arable land.”
Declaring the Expo open, Obegolu urged governments, investors, researchers and innovators across Africa and globally to seize opportunities emerging inside Nigeria’s agricultural value chains, saying FARMFATECH will define the region’s next phase of food system transformation.
Locally Fabricated Machineries
Also the Chairman, Autodex Nigeria, Dr. Nnamdi Ezeani noted that the company’s rapid transition from combustion engines to full electric and locally fabricated agricultural machinery proves that African industrial transformation is no longer theory but an unfolding reality.
Ezeani stressed that Autodex was no longer a consumer of innovation, but a creator of innovation — led by local engineers and driven by African solutions.
He revealed that just twelve months ago, Autodex began with combustible engine tricycles with 30% local content.
He stated that the company has presently reached 42% local content and successfully transitioned to full electric tricycles protecting the environment, cutting fuel reliance, and proving technology localisation is possible on the continent.
“As part of our agricultural machinery expansion, I’m delighted to report that almost all the implements of our tractors are now locally fabricated in a factory workshop located just around Abuja in Giri cadastral industrial zone. They are certified by both the Standard Organisation of Nigeria and the National Centre for Agricultural Mechanisation Encamp.”
Autodex will launch a hybrid tricycle capable of switching from electric power in cities to biofuel mode in rural communities.
Victoria Ibanga