The European Union (EU) and the University of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences (UAES) Umuagwo are collaborating to modernize agriculture in Nigeria and across the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). This partnership aims to enhance food security and empower farmers through the adoption of digital technologies.
During a recent field mission, Massimo De Luca, Head of Cooperation for the EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, commended UAES for its effective implementation of the EU’s Digisol project, which aims to equip farmers with the tools and knowledge necessary to thrive in an era of climate change.
The Digisol project has already impacted hundreds of farmers across Imo, Kwara, and Ogun states, providing them with training in digital production, processing, and trade knowledge sharing.
“This project is about transforming lives through food sustainability,” De Luca emphasized, highlighting the importance of digital solutions in enhancing agricultural productivity and resilience.
The project has garnered significant praise from key stakeholders. UAES Vice-Chancellor, Professor Christopher Eze, expressed the university’s commitment to environmental sustainability and climate action, emphasizing the role of technical education and human capital development in achieving food security.
Dr. Chimezie Amadi, Imo State Commissioner for Digital Economy and e-Government, assured the EU of the state’s commitment to harnessing technology to enhance market access and connect farmers with consumers.
The success of the Digisol project is evident in the experiences of farmers like those from the Fexdora Cooperative Agro Development. Ngozi Nwadike, the National Coordinator of the cooperative, highlighted how the training has empowered farmers to digitally monitor their farms, prevent theft, and effectively market their produce.
The partnership between the EU and UAES exemplifies the power of collaboration in driving sustainable agricultural development in Nigeria. By embracing digital technologies and empowering farmers with the necessary knowledge and skills, this initiative is paving the way for a more resilient and prosperous agricultural sector in the region.
