Artificial Intelligence (AI) has the potential to completely transform agriculture in Nigeria by boosting crop yields, minimizing post-harvest losses, and enhancing overall farm productivity. This was the key message delivered by Chioma Okoro, the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Wootlab Innovations, during a recent interview in Abuja.
Okoro stressed that by leveraging AI technologies—particularly multimodal AI, which integrates data from multiple sources—Nigerian farmers can make more informed, data-driven decisions that could revolutionize their farming practices. According to her, these advancements will help determine what crops to plant, the optimal planting season, proper fertilization schedules, and the best harvest periods. This transition, she emphasized, could bring about a new era of precision farming in the country.
Smarter Decisions Through Data
Multimodal AI combines diverse data types such as satellite imagery, soil analysis, weather forecasts, and real-time farm data. This fusion of information enables AI systems to offer highly accurate and actionable insights. For Nigerian farmers, this means AI can replace guesswork with scientifically guided decisions, significantly improving outcomes and reducing risks.
“AI can now provide soil yield maps and detailed performance analytics that assist farmers in closely monitoring their farms,” Okoro explained. “By shifting away from traditional methods and instead using real-time, data-backed recommendations, farmers can make smarter choices that improve efficiency and boost crop yields.”
These intelligent systems are already in use in other parts of the world, where they’ve shown measurable improvements in productivity. Okoro believes that the same success can be replicated in Nigeria if farmers are given the right tools and training.
The Case for Digital Agriculture in Nigeria
Okoro also underscored how digital technologies can introduce transparency and fairness into the agricultural sector. In developed nations, digital transformation in farming has been a major catalyst for innovation, efficiency, and sustainability. AI technologies not only improve farming outcomes but also strengthen food supply chains by reducing waste and enhancing planning.
For instance, AI systems can now accurately forecast weather events such as rainfall, droughts, and wind patterns. They can also detect early signs of crop stress caused by pests, nutrient deficiencies, or water shortages. With early warnings, farmers can respond proactively, reducing damage and preserving yields.
“Access to these digital tools is critical,” Okoro stressed. “By equipping local farmers with cutting-edge technology, we can drastically improve agricultural productivity and move closer to meeting Nigeria’s growing food demand.”
National Strategy Needed to Harness AI in Agriculture
The push for AI in agriculture echoes similar calls from other industry leaders. In July 2024, renowned Data and AI expert Abel Aboh made headlines by urging Nigerian policymakers to prioritize AI as a national development tool. He outlined strategic pathways the country could follow to integrate AI into various sectors, especially agriculture, where the impact would be immediate and far-reaching.
According to Aboh, achieving food sufficiency in Nigeria hinges on the successful application of AI in farming. He called on the government to urgently assemble a multidisciplinary team of experts to develop and implement AI-powered agricultural solutions. These solutions, he said, must be tailored to Nigeria’s unique challenges while ensuring they remain transparent, explainable, and inclusive.
As AI continues to advance globally, Nigeria stands at a critical juncture. The country has an opportunity to harness this emerging technology to solve some of its most pressing issues—food insecurity being one of the foremost.
Overcoming Challenges to Implementation
Despite the promise AI holds for Nigerian agriculture, Okoro acknowledged several hurdles that must be addressed. Infrastructure limitations, low digital literacy, and limited internet access in rural areas remain significant barriers to AI adoption. In addition, many farmers lack exposure to even basic digital tools, let alone advanced AI platforms.
To overcome these challenges, Okoro advocated for widespread farmer education and government-led investment in rural connectivity. She also encouraged partnerships between technology firms and agricultural cooperatives to introduce scalable AI solutions that are easy to use and understand.
“Empowering farmers with the knowledge and tools to utilize AI is just as important as developing the technology itself,” she said. “Without proper training and infrastructure, even the most advanced solutions will remain out of reach.”
Future Outlook: AI as a Catalyst for Agricultural Reform
With a growing population and increasing pressure on food systems, Nigeria urgently needs innovations that can drive agricultural reform. AI offers a powerful solution by optimizing crop planning, reducing waste, and maximizing land use.
As Okoro and other experts point out, the technology already exists. What remains is the political will, investment, and collaboration needed to scale it across the country.
If implemented correctly, AI could usher in a new era of smart agriculture in Nigeria—one marked by sustainable food systems, increased farmer incomes, and stronger national food security. By positioning itself as an early adopter of agricultural AI, Nigeria has the chance to not only feed its people but also become a model for AI-driven farming in Africa.
Conclusion
Artificial Intelligence holds the key to solving many of the problems facing Nigerian agriculture. From increasing yields to reducing post-harvest losses, AI can transform how farming is done—if properly implemented. Chioma Okoro’s insights make it clear that the time for Nigeria to act is now. With the right tools, training, and policies, the country can unlock the full potential of AI and usher in a new era of agricultural prosperity.
