The Federal Government has announced plans to strengthen scientific and technological cooperation with China as part of efforts to reduce post-harvest losses, expand agro-processing and increase Nigeria's agricultural exports.
The initiative is aimed at applying modern technology and scientific innovation to some of the major challenges affecting Nigeria's agricultural sector, particularly the loss of farm produce between harvesting, processing, storage and distribution.
Government officials said deeper collaboration with China could provide opportunities for the transfer of technology, technical expertise and innovative solutions capable of improving agricultural productivity and strengthening the country's food and agro-processing industries.
A major focus of the proposed cooperation is expected to be the development and adoption of improved storage, preservation and processing technologies that can extend the shelf life of agricultural produce and reduce wastage.
The Federal Government also believes that expanding agro-processing will enable Nigeria to move beyond the export of largely raw agricultural commodities by increasing the production of processed and value-added products for international markets.
Such a shift could create additional employment opportunities, improve earnings for farmers and processors, strengthen rural economies and increase Nigeria's foreign exchange earnings from agricultural exports.
The government has continued to emphasise the importance of science, technology and innovation in transforming Nigeria's agricultural sector and making it more competitive in the global market.
The proposed partnership with China is therefore expected to complement ongoing efforts to modernise agriculture, strengthen food production and build a more efficient agricultural value chain capable of supporting sustainable economic growth.
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