COAS Commissions Agro-Tech Solar-Powered Equipment To Enhance Nigeria’s Food Security

COAS Commissions Agro-Tech Solar-Powered Equipment To Enhance Nigeria’s Food Security

‎The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu Nigerian Army Medal, on Tuesday, 21 April 2026, commissioned a Parabolic-Shaped Solar Dryer and Inert Atmosphere Silos at the Nigerian Army Farms and Ranches Limited (NAFARL), Giri, Abuja.

‎The COAS, who was represented by the Deputy Chief of Special Services and Programmes (Army), Major General Jerry Manjang, commended the Nigerian Stored Products Research Institute (NSPRI) for the installation of the facilities. He described the initiative as a timely and strategic intervention aimed at strengthening food security and reducing post-harvest losses across the country.

‎He noted that insecurity, including insurgency and banditry, has disrupted farming activities and contributed to food shortages, stressing that the Nigerian Army’s agribusiness initiative is designed to bridge the gap. “These facilities will enhance food processing and storage, reduce waste, and improve the quality and shelf life of agricultural produce,” he stated.

‎The COAS further explained that the Solar Dryer provides a clean-energy solution for hygienic drying of agricultural produce. At the same time, the Inert Atmosphere Silos ensure chemical-free grain preservation by eliminating oxygen and controlling pests. He urged all stakeholders to ensure proper maintenance and optimal utilisation of the facilities to guarantee their sustainability.

‎Earlier in his welcome address, the Executive Director, NAFARL, Major General Sinyinah Nicodemus, described the projects as a major milestone in addressing post-harvest losses, which account for up to 50 per cent of Nigeria’s agricultural output. He noted that the Nigerian Army Farms and Ranches initiative, established in 2017, was designed to support the Federal Government’s food security drive while also generating internal revenue.

‎Major General Nicodemus added that the technologies would not only improve preservation and processing but also create employment opportunities, stabilise food prices, and strengthen the agricultural value chain. He called on the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and other relevant stakeholders to provide additional support in the form of improved seedlings, fertilisers, and mechanised equipment.

‎Additionally, Professor Lateef Sanni, the Executive Director of the Nigerian Stored Products Research Institute, stated that the project highlights the critical link between food security and national stability. He emphasised that the institute’s innovations are aimed at ensuring year-round food availability and reducing losses across the supply chain. “We must work together to ensure Nigeria produces what it consumes,” he said.

‎The event was attended by senior military officers, government officials, development partners, and key stakeholders in the agricultural sector from Nigeria and Sierra Leone.

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