The University of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences (UAES) in Umuagwo, Imo State, recently launched advanced climate-smart tools to boost food security and agricultural research in Nigeria. These tools, funded by the EU, promise to change how rural farmers approach farming.
During the unveiling at the “Agro-ecology Info Day” on February 6, 2026, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Christopher Eze highlighted the new high-tech laboratory, featuring drones and soil-testing equipment. These innovations aim to help farmers adopt sustainable practices that align with climate resilience.
The laboratory is equipped with tools like microscopes, spectrometers, soil augers, and even an 86-inch UHD smart board. “This is a blend of knowledge, collaboration, and innovation,” Eze remarked, underlining UAES’s role as a regional hub for agricultural innovation.
Central to this initiative is a new MSc program in Agro-ecology, which will provide practical training and share vital scientific insights with local farmers. Eze also mentioned a digital marketing app designed to connect farmers directly to consumers, bypassing middlemen and minimizing inflation impact.
He stressed the importance of moving from food sufficiency to food sovereignty, where Nigeria can fully control its agricultural production and seed systems. Eze called on the Federal Government to improve support for farmers, advocating for low-interest loans and food subsidies.
Dr. Ayo Enwerem, coordinator of the AGRICO Farm project, explained that the workshop’s goal was to enhance farmers’ knowledge of agro-ecology and smart farming techniques. Recent surveys show that such approaches can significantly increase crop yields and adaptability to climate change.
Various presentations during the workshop touched on crucial topics, including soil fertility and the role of women in agriculture. This inclusive approach brings together students, farmers, and lecturers to foster partnerships for sustainable agricultural development.
As Nigeria faces rising food security challenges, such initiatives become vital. Recent data indicates that climate change may affect farm productivity by 20% over the next decade if no action is taken.
This launch at UAES serves as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that with the right tools and knowledge, the agricultural landscape can be transformed for the better.
For more about agricultural innovations and policies, visit the World Bank’s Agriculture & Food page.
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Climate-smart tools,Food security,research,University of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences (UAES)
