MTN Foundation, in partnership with the Ogun State Government and the Federal Government, has launched AgriConnect, a digital agriculture platform aimed at empowering 1,000 small-scale farmers with mobile-enabled agricultural intelligence.
The initiative, executed through the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR) in partnership with MTN Foundation, Huawei and the Ogun State Government, is aimed at empowering farmers through access to mobile-enabled agricultural intelligence and digital tools.
Also speaking at the event, the Ogun State Governor, His Excellency Prince Dapo Abiodun noted that the program will support 1,000 farmers selected from a state-managed database of over 160,000 registered farmers, providing them with mobile-enabled services and digital technologies supplied by Huawei.
“This initiative is intended to enhance food production, ensure food security, and boost agribusiness opportunities across the state and Nigeria at large,” he said.
“These are not just gadgets; they are tools of transformation. With this programme, we are boosting productivity, promoting efficiency, and fortifying the cassava value chain. Ogun State is proud to lead in cassava production and equally proud to lead in agricultural innovation,” he added.
The Governor also emphasised the agricultural sector’s economic importance, citing the state’s fertile land and favourable climate as strong assets. Governor Abiodun also announced the construction of a new cotton processing plant with a capacity to process 100 tons per hour, expected to generate 250,000 direct jobs and position Nigeria as a key player in the global cotton and garment industry.
The governor called on all public and private stakeholders to support the AgriConnect Initiative, stressing that Ogun State is home to the most responsible and best-organised farmers in the country.
Speaking at the official launch held on Wednesday at the June 12 Cultural Centre in Kuto, Abeokuta, the Executive Director of the MTN Foundation, Odunayo Sanya, said the initiative would enhance food production by equipping farmers with critical digital tools and knowledge. “At the MTN Foundation, we strongly believe in the power of technology to drive growth, create opportunities, and empower individuals.
“The AgriConnect Initiative embodies this belief by leveraging both global and local partnerships to provide our farmers with essential tools and resources. Access to real-time weather forecasts, market prices, and best agricultural practices will not only support informed decision-making but also significantly improve yields and increase farmers’ incomes.
“Ultimately, this will contribute to economic growth at both the state and national levels. For those unfamiliar with the MTN Foundation, since its inception in 2004, we have remained at the forefront of Nigeria’s social empowerment. We have invested over ₦32 billion in projects and interventions that align with national priorities and Sustainable Development Goals,” she said.
The official launch ceremony brought together stakeholders from government, the private sector, and the development community, marking a new chapter in digital transformation in agriculture. As part of MTN Foundation’s broader vision, AgriConnect reinforces the Foundation’s commitment to inclusive growth, youth empowerment, and sustainable agriculture.
