Reported by Weng Patrick Atokor | Journalist at Weng Global
Farmers in Ogun State have received specialized training on Agricultural Market Information Systems (AMIS) under a collaborative initiative by the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) programme and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), as part of efforts to improve agricultural productivity, strengthen food security, and increase farmers’ incomes.
The training equipped farmers, agribusiness operators, extension workers, and other stakeholders with practical knowledge on accessing and utilizing market information to make informed production, pricing, and marketing decisions. Organizers said the programme is designed to bridge the information gap that often prevents smallholder farmers from maximizing profits and accessing competitive markets.
Agricultural Market Information Systems provide real time data on commodity prices, consumer demand, weather conditions, market trends, and buyer opportunities. Experts noted that access to reliable information enables farmers to plan production more efficiently, reduce post-harvest losses, negotiate better prices, and connect directly with processors and large-scale buyers.
Speaking during the training, facilitators stressed that digital agriculture and data-driven decision-making are becoming increasingly important for modern farming. They encouraged participants to embrace technology and digital platforms that can improve productivity while strengthening agricultural value chains.
The SAPZ programme, supported by IFAD and other development partners, is a flagship initiative aimed at transforming Nigeria’s agricultural sector by establishing agro-industrial processing hubs that promote value addition, attract private investment, create employment opportunities, and stimulate rural economic growth.
Participants also received guidance on post-harvest handling, quality standards, market linkages, value chain development, and the effective use of digital tools for agribusiness management. The sessions emphasized that better market intelligence can significantly reduce food waste and improve profitability for smallholder farmers.
Stakeholders observed that inadequate access to accurate market information has remained a major challenge for farmers across Nigeria, often leading to poor pricing decisions, oversupply in some markets, and limited bargaining power. They expressed optimism that the training would enhance farmers’ competitiveness and improve the efficiency of agricultural supply chains in Ogun State.
The initiative aligns with Nigeria’s broader agricultural transformation agenda, which prioritizes technology adoption, food security, rural development, and sustainable economic growth through increased investment in agriculture. Development partners reaffirmed their commitment to supporting smallholder farmers with innovative solutions that improve resilience, financial inclusion, and market access.
By empowering farmers with timely market intelligence and practical business skills, SAPZ and IFAD aim to strengthen agricultural value chains, enhance rural livelihoods, and position Ogun State as a leading hub for modern, commercially driven agriculture.
Sources: International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD); Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) Programme; News Agency of Nigeria (NAN); Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security.
