What is the story about?
What's Happening?
The Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) has emphasized the importance of agriculture as Nigeria's strategic pathway to economic diversification, job creation, and poverty reduction. At the 2025 Annual Fair Symposium of the Agriculture and Allied Group, Gabriel Idahosa, President of LCCI, highlighted the need to transform agriculture from a survival activity to a wealth-creating, technology-driven sector. The symposium focused on modernizing agriculture through digital innovations such as data-driven farming, drone monitoring, and smart irrigation systems. With Nigeria's population projected to exceed 400 million by 2050, agriculture is seen as both a food security imperative and an economic growth driver.
Why It's Important?
The emphasis on agriculture as a strategic economic driver is crucial for Nigeria, which has historically relied on crude oil. Agriculture currently contributes over 25% to Nigeria's GDP and employs nearly 35% of the labor force. However, the sector remains under-optimized, with significant food imports highlighting the need for increased domestic production. By modernizing agriculture, Nigeria can enhance food security, reduce poverty, and create jobs, aligning with global trends in agribusiness innovation. This shift could attract venture capital and position Nigeria as a competitive player in the global agricultural market.
What's Next?
The LCCI plans to continue advocating for the modernization of agriculture, aiming to change public perception and make farming an attractive, technology-driven profession. Efforts will focus on integrating information technology, mechanization, and precision tools into farming practices. The chamber hopes to replicate successful agribusiness models from developed countries, emphasizing innovation and opportunity. Stakeholders are expected to collaborate on initiatives that support young agripreneurs and enhance the agribusiness value chain.
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