The Federal Government of Nigeria has entered into a strategic partnership with the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) to deploy satellite technology for agricultural traceability, farmland monitoring, and verification of deforestation-free supply chains.
The agreement, sealed through a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), is part of Nigeria’s broader effort to remain competitive in global markets and safeguard billions of dollars in agricultural export value.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, described the collaboration as both strategic and symbolic.
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“It is strategic because it equips Nigeria with the systems required to remain competitive in global markets. It is symbolic because it represents our collective resolve to protect our farmers, modernise our value chains and build an agricultural sector that stands strong on the global stage,” he said.
Kyari noted that President Bola Tinubu has made it clear that agriculture remains central to economic renewal, stability and inclusive growth.
How the Traceability System Will Work
The MoU establishes a national framework for traceability and environmental monitoring.
According to the minister, NASRDA will provide satellite imagery, real-time monitoring, and technical leadership, while the ministry will oversee farmer engagement, policy integration, and nationwide implementation.
The government also unveiled the National White Paper on Strategy for European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) Compliance, which mandates that agricultural exports must be traceable to specific farm boundaries, legally produced, and verifiably deforestation-free.
Kyari warned that Nigeria could lose over $1 billion in direct export earnings and more than $3 billion in total economic value annually if it fails to meet EUDR requirements.
“We can build a transparent, efficient and globally trusted agricultural economy. We can open new premium markets, attract stronger investment and deliver better incomes for our farmers,” he added, emphasizing that no farmer will be left behind in the transition.
NASRDA’s Director-General, Dr. Mathew Adepoju, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to supporting the ministry and ensuring full implementation of the MoU.
Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr. Marcus Ogunbiyi, described the initiative as a major step toward strengthening Nigeria’s agricultural system, adding that global markets now place significant emphasis on traceability and deforestation concerns.
Also speaking, Dr. Tolulope Pius-Fadipe of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission pledged support to ensure citizens’ data is fully protected throughout the process.
