Nigeria’s agricultural sector can achieve higher productivity and reduce food waste if farmers receive adequate training, according to the Managing Director of Arzikin Noma, a leading agribusiness organisation.
In a recent interview, the MD emphasised that training and capacity building must precede the provision of farm inputs and financing. “Equipping farmers with modern agronomic techniques, mechanisation skills, soil management practices, weather advisory tools, and extension services is essential. This approach maximises farm yields and significantly reduces post-harvest losses,” he stated.
Arzikin Noma has supported over 400,000 smallholder farmers with input financing, climate-smart tools, and market access, and aims to reach 1 million farmers by 2030. The initiative aligns with broader national efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s food security.
Sustainable farming practices are also a priority for the organisation, including improving soil health, reducing chemical usage, planting cover crops, and ensuring proper disposal of agrochemicals to minimise environmental impact and food wastage.
To further boost production of staple crops such as soybeans and sorghum, Arzikin Noma advocates for improved infrastructure, access to credit, security, and policies that enable banks to lend directly to smallholder farmers. These measures would allow farmers to build financial identities and enhance long-term economic resilience.
Experts note that such training and support could transform Nigeria’s agricultural sector, addressing food waste caused by poor storage, processing deficiencies, and inadequate post-harvest practices, while raising farmers’ incomes.
This initiative complements government efforts to reform agricultural education, provide financing for smallholder farmers, and promote climate-resilient technologies to ensure sustainable productivity and national food security. Visit www.jocomms.com for more news.