The Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Communications Satellite (NIGCOMSAT) Limited, Mrs. Nkechi Egerton-Idehen has canvassed for a marriage between agriculture and technology in Nigeria to further advance the contributions of the agriculture sector to the nation’s economy.
Speaking on her courtesy visit to the Technology Development for Poverty Alleviation Initiative (TD4PAI), an NGO and Internet of Things (IoT) hub, the NIGCOMSAT boss noted that agriculture plays a crucial role in Nigeria’s economy, evident with the 25% GDP contribution in 2023. “Technology can transform how we maximize this sector. One such innovation is soil monitoring technology, which predicts crop outcomes. During my courtesy visit to TD4PAI, I had the opportunity to learn firsthand about their groundbreaking initiatives.”
“I believe in home grown innovation and enabling our Nigerian Digital Economy through Nigerian Enterprises. My belief got tested when I drove to Kuje, Abuja and listened as Dr. Collins Agu, the founder of TD4PAI IoT Hub, and his team present real-time data solutions aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity using IOT sensors and analytical dashboards they have built.”
While thanking the Senior Director at Okta, an American identity and access management company based in San Francisco, Chukwuemeka Afigbo for calling her attention to the initiative, Mrs. Egerton-Idehen noted that the NIGCOMSAT Limited team got to see other innovations like the Unity Board (AI/IoT STEAM Education Kit) and Udene Board (RFID/IoT DAQaaS Platform), which are versatile IoT devices facilitating solutions across sectors such as agriculture, smart cities, education, industrial automation, and more.
“Imagine the possibilities that exist when we combine these solutions with the connectivity of NIGCOMSAT Satellite to deliver smart solutions to various sectors irrespective of their location. I am particularly proud to see a revolution in farming practices by leveraging IoT technology for effective soil monitoring starting at home.
TD4PAI’s commitment to inclusivity and community support is evident as they actively reach out to underrepresented groups, providing free digital skills training and industry exposure. In alliance with NIGCOMSAT, we aim to drive these technological advancements further and co-create a more prosperous future for Nigeria.”
Speaking on the NIGCOMSAT CEO’s visit, Dr. Collins Agu thanked her for the visit and the opportunity to listen to her insights and experience from the TD4PAI IoT Hub visit.
He said: “We are excited about the potential collaboration between NIGCOMSAT and TD4PAI to revolutionize Nigeria’s agricultural sector through innovative IoT solutions.
NIGCOMSAT’s commitment to leveraging indigenous technology to advance Nigeria’s economy is unwavering, and your observations reinforce the immense potential of homegrown solutions.
Your recognition of the importance of homegrown innovation aligns perfectly with our mission at TD4PAI. We believe that leveraging IoT technology, such as our soil monitoring sensors and analytical dashboards, can significantly enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability.”
Dr. Agu further noted that the demonstration of the Unity Board and Udene Board during the visit showcased the versatility and impact of indigenous IoT devices in various sectors. “Combining these solutions with NIGCOMSAT’s satellite connectivity opens up endless possibilities for delivering smart solutions across Nigeria, regardless of location.”
He also thanked Chukwuemeka Afigbo for his interest in growing the local industry and for calling the attention of the NIGCOMSAT boss to TD4PAI IoT Hub.
