Nigerian Agritechs Can Upscale and Grow Through Vertical Farming

  Nigeria, the most populous country in Africa, has a significant potential to become one of the world’s leading agricultural powerhouses. Agriculture accounts for 23% of Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and provides employment to about 70% of the population. However, the sector faces numerous challenges, including low productivity, climate change, inadequate infrastructure, and limited access to funding and technology.

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To address these challenges and unlock the full potential of the agricultural sector, Nigerian agritechs are turning to vertical farming technologies. Vertical farming involves growing crops in vertically stacked layers, using artificial lighting, and controlled environmental conditions. This technology offers numerous advantages over traditional farming, including higher crop yields, reduced water usage, and the ability to grow crops year-round. Here are some ways Nigerian agritechs can upscale and grow through vertical farming technologies:

Collaborate With Experts

Vertical farming is a relatively new technology in Nigeria, and few experts are available to offer guidance on its implementation. Agritechs can benefit from collaborating with experts in the field, such as agronomists, agricultural engineers, and researchers. These experts can offer valuable insights into the best practices for growing different crops, managing pests and diseases, and optimizing resource usage.

Utilize Data Analytics

Vertical farming involves collecting and analyzing vast amounts of data on crop growth, environmental conditions, and resource usage. Agritechs can leverage data analytics tools to gain insights into crop performance and optimize resource usage. By using data to make informed decisions, agritechs can increase yields, reduce waste, and improve overall efficiency.

Adopt Automation

Vertical farming technologies offer numerous automation options, such as automated lighting, irrigation, and nutrient delivery systems. Agritechs can adopt these systems to reduce labour costs, increase productivity, and improve crop quality. Automation can also improve consistency in crop growth, leading to more predictable yields and higher profits.

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Use Renewable Energy

Vertical farming requires significant energy input, mainly for lighting and climate control. Agritechs can reduce energy costs and improve sustainability by using renewable energy sources such as solar or wind power. Renewable energy can also offer agritechs greater independence from the grid and reduce the risk of power outages.

Diversify Crop Production

Vertical farming technologies offer agritechs the ability to grow a wide range of crops in a small space. Agritechs can capitalize on this advantage by diversifying their crop production and targeting high-value crops such as leafy greens, berries, and herbs. Diversifying crop production can also help reduce the risk of crop failure due to pests or weather conditions.

Explore Export Opportunities

Nigeria has a vast and growing market for fresh produce, but agritechs can also explore export opportunities. Vertical farming technologies offer the potential to grow high-quality crops year-round, providing a competitive advantage in the global market. Agritechs can leverage this advantage by partnering with exporters, distributors, and retailers to expand their reach and increase profits.

Create Partnerships With Local Communities

Agritechs can create partnerships with local communities, including farmers, schools, and urban dwellers, to increase demand for their products and promote sustainable agriculture. For example, agritechs can partner with local schools to provide fresh, healthy produce for school lunches or with urban farmers to expand their market reach. These partnerships can also help agritechs establish themselves as leaders in the local agricultural community.

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Conclusion

In conclusion, vertical farming technologies offer Nigerian agritechs a significant opportunity to upscale and grow their businesses while contributing to the country’s food security and economic growth. By embracing this technology and collaborating with experts, utilizing data analytics, adopting automation, using renewable energy, diversifying crop production, exploring export opportunities, and creating partnerships with local communities, agritechs can unlock the full potential of the agricultural sector and help Nigeria become a global leader in sustainable agriculture. Featured Image Source: Wikifarmer

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This article was first published on 1st April 2023

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