The federal government has launched the National Digital Farmers’ Registry (NDFR), a collaborative knowledge-exchange platform aimed at establishing a unified, efficient, and secure digital agriculture ecosystem.
Abubakar Kyari, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, made this announcement during a stakeholders’ workshop on best practices for the NDFR on Wednesday in Abuja.
He stated that the launch is in direct alignment with government priorities for the design and implementation of the national registry.
The workshop was organised by the federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security in collaboration with the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and Heifer International.
Mr Kyari noted that the workshop provided an opportunity for government agencies, private sector representatives, development partners, implementing organisations, technology innovators, and farmers’ associations to engage with global and regional best practices.
“It also strengthens the multi-stakeholder platform established to ensure that diverse voices contribute to an NDFR that is inclusive, sustainable, and impactful,” he said.
He explained that the NDFR is a cornerstone of the government’s agenda for food security, agricultural productivity, and national economic renewal.
Mr Kyari elaborated that the registry will enhance data governance and ensure that every farmer in Nigeria is uniquely identified, properly documented, and effectively supported.
“A credible and inclusive NDFR is essential for delivering targeted interventions, improving farmer access to inputs, finance, and extension services, as well as strengthening planning and policy processes.
“It will also enhance accountability and traceability across agricultural value chains,” he added.
The minister mentioned that the ministry is collaborating with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) on the design of an NIN-enabled registry to ensure a credible national database.
According to him, this collaboration will facilitate unique verification of each farmer, significantly reducing duplication, fraud, and fragmentation across agricultural databases.
He also noted that the ministry is partnering with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) to incorporate robust data-protection measures, cybersecurity safeguards, and national-security considerations into the registry.
“Protecting the data of Nigerian farmers is not only a technical requirement but also a national priority,” he asserted.
Mr Kyari highlighted that the initiative aligns with the Kampala Declaration on Strengthening Digital and Data Systems for Agricultural Transformation under the CAADP Agenda.
He stated that the declaration urges African governments to establish harmonised, farmer-centred digital ecosystems, strengthen national data governance, and promote interoperability across agricultural and food systems.
“By building a unified NIN-enabled registry and fostering multi-stakeholder collaboration, Nigeria is demonstrating continental leadership and fulfilling its commitment to the African Union’s vision of data-driven agricultural development.
“Our work on the NDFR directly contributes to regional integration, accountability, and evidence-based planning as envisioned under the CAADP framework,” he remarked.
Mr Kyari indicated that the gathering marks a significant moment in the collective effort to transform Nigeria’s food systems in line with President Bola Tinubu’s directives.
“We must modernise agriculture, strengthen data governance, and ensure that every farmer in Nigeria is uniquely identified, properly documented, and effectively supported,” he concluded.
IFAD Country Director Dede Ekoue stated that the initiative showcases strong government commitment to transforming the agricultural sector and improving the livelihoods of farmers.
She added that the aim is to mobilise key stakeholders towards a robust NIN-empowered registry that enhances service delivery, promotes transparency, and ensures inclusivity.
Lekan Tobe, Country Director of Heifer Nigeria, mentioned that Heifer and IFAD are supporting policy dialogue on the farmers’ registry, with their roles including research on best practices and capacity building.
“For us at Heifer, we lead global best-practice research to develop a roadmap for the NIN-supported digital farmers’ registry in Nigeria.
“We also support the capacity building of stakeholders, among other initiatives,” he said.
(NAN)
