Nigeria's Farmers' Association Launches Digital ID for Improved Data Management

News in Brief:

-Nigeria's farmers' association has introduced a nationwide digital ID card and member database, streamlining registration and data management.

-This development is expected to improve farmers' representation and simplify access to loans, markets, and governmental support.

The All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN) has introduced a digital identity card system and a comprehensive database for its members. Stakeholders bank on this move to harmonise the information of Nigerian farmers nationwide and facilitate access to critical agricultural support.

During a press event in Abuja, the association's National President, Dr Farouk Rabiu Mudi, highlighted this initiative as a step towards modernising the sector and creating an inclusive platform where farmers can voice their challenges and seek collective solutions.

Speaking at the unveiling, he stressed the need for unity among Nigeria’s diverse farming communities.

“Farmers constitute about 70 per cent of the population, but for too long, our voices have not been heard. This platform brings commodity associations together, enabling us to present a unified front and deliver our concerns directly to policymakers," the spokesperson stated.

He emphasised that the new digital ID card would authenticate farmer membership, streamline data management under commodity association leaders, and support tailored interventions for various agricultural sub-sectors

Advisory Board

AFAN also inaugurated an advisory board comprised of agricultural, policy, business, and technology experts, tasked with guiding the association and ensuring the interests of farmers are represented in government decisions.

“The board connects our members with the highest levels of leadership and innovation, positioning farming as the backbone of Nigeria’s food system,” Dr Mudi remarked.

A central feature of the project is the newly launched farmers’ data bank and helpline. The platform allows farmers to submit complaints and receive guidance, regardless of their location or literacy level.

Mudi noted that agents have been deployed nationwide to assist with enrollment, ensuring inclusivity across the federation

The digital infrastructure reportedly enhances access to loans and government-backed opportunities.

Financing and Policy

Adeyemo Ayooluwa of Grotechnologies—the consultancy behind the platform—revealed that this initiative will improve farmers' access to finance.

“Every farmer must be included to benefit from support programmes. The database is integrated with the Bank of Agriculture for seamless access to credit and resources,” he explained.

Meanwhile, the National President of the Poultry Association of Nigeria, Ichie Sunday Eze Obiora, expressed mixed reactions to recent agricultural policies. While welcoming reductions in feed and poultry product prices, he warned that liberal food import policies could undermine local production and profitability.

AFAN serves as the umbrella body for over 82 commodity-based associations, collectively representing over 15 million registered Nigerian farmers, with many more yet to be documented.