The Federal Government has introduced the National Digital Farmers Registry, a central platform designed to unify data, strengthen verification systems and support a secure digital agriculture ecosystem. The launch took place at a stakeholder workshop in Abuja.
The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, said the registry aligns with government priorities on food security, productivity and economic renewal. He said the platform will establish a credible national database that identifies every farmer, improves access to inputs and finance and strengthens policy planning.
The workshop brought together government agencies, private-sector groups, development partners, technology firms and farmer associations. Kyari said the engagement allows stakeholders to align with global standards and contribute to a system that is inclusive and effective.
Kyari said the registry will enhance data governance by assigning each farmer a unique digital identity. The ministry is working with the National Identity Management Commission to build an NIN-enabled platform that prevents duplication and fraud and provides a unified national database.
The ministry is also partnering with the Office of the National Security Adviser to embed cybersecurity and data-protection measures. Kyari said protecting farmer data is a national priority and a core requirement for modernising the agriculture sector.
He said the initiative supports the African Union’s CAADP framework and aligns with the Kampala Declaration, which calls for harmonised, farmer-centred digital ecosystems and stronger national data systems.
Kyari said the registry is central to President Bola Tinubu’s directive to modernise agriculture and strengthen accountability across value chains. He said the government aims to ensure that all farmers are accurately documented and supported with reliable services.
IFAD Country Director Dede Ekoue said the initiative reflects strong government commitment to transforming agriculture and improving farmer livelihoods. She said the goal is to build a transparent, NIN-enabled registry that improves service delivery and ensures inclusivity.
Heifer Nigeria Country Director Lekan Tobe said the organisation is contributing research, capacity building and global best-practice support to guide the registry’s development.
