Nigeria's national oil company announces shutdown of state-owned refinery
NNPC Ltd announced the temporary shutdown of Port Harcourt Refinery for scheduled maintenance starting May 24, 2025.
The maintenance aims to enhance efficiency, ensure sustainability, and reduce reliance on fuel imports.
The shutdown raises concerns about persistent issues in Nigeria's refining infrastructure and performance.
The shutdown was announced in a statement issued on Saturday by Femi Soneye, Chief Corporate Communications Officer, who stated that the closure is temporary and intended to enhance the refinery's efficiency and ensure its long-term viability.
The statement read: 'The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) wishes to inform the general public that the Port Harcourt Refining Company (PHRC) will undergo a planned maintenance shutdown."
'This scheduled maintenance and sustainability assessment will commence on May 24, 2025.' Soneye added.
According to NNPC Ltd, the maintenance operation will be conducted in coordination with relevant agencies, including the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), to ensure transparency and technical precision throughout the process.
'We are working closely with all relevant stakeholders to ensure the maintenance and assessment activities are carried out efficiently and transparently, ' Soneye said.
NNPC Ltd reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing energy infrastructure and ensuring sustainable energy security for Nigerians.
The company noted that the maintenance exercise is part of its broader efforts to boost national refining capacity and reduce reliance on fuel imports.
It also pledged to keep the public informed through regular updates on its official website and media channels during the maintenance period, and to implement measures to mitigate any potential disruptions to affected parties.
Nigeria's refinery challenges
However, this latest shutdown comes amid fresh scrutiny of PHRC's inconsistent performance, with concerns over transparency and accountability.
The facility has been burdened by years of underperformance, failed upgrade plans, and rehabilitation setbacks; despite several rounds of funding and government guarantees.
Just last month, NNPC Ltd dismissed PHRC's Managing Director, citing internal investigation reports and accountability issues, project delays, and alleged mismanagement of rehabilitation funds.
Although today's maintenance announcement is seen as essential upkeep to maintain and improve production, critics argue it highlights deeper flaws in Nigeria's refining strategy, particularly at Port Harcourt Refinery, which remains unable to achieve steady production despite years of major overhaul efforts.
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Business Insider
3 days ago
- Business Insider
West Africa's borderless women: Inside the Yoruba sisterhood linking Nigeria and Côte d'Ivoire
"It was never in my thoughts that I would ever go to Côte d'Ivoire until one of my brothers came from there to take me," recalls Madam Rebecca Adebayo, from Ejigbo, Southwest Nigeria, who migrated over five decades ago. "I just finished modern school and had taken the form for nursing school. My boyfriend later disappointed me, so I went to Ibadan and was doing well selling provisions at Agbeni Market. Then one of my half-brothers came from Côte d'Ivoire and insisted that they should call me back home.' Hearing about the opportunities in Côte d'Ivoire planted a seed in Madam Rebecca's heart. It was a chance to start afresh, to build a better life for herself and her family. That moment when hope met uncertainty became the turning point. She bravely embraced the unknown, her courage shining through as she was convinced that her aspirations could transcend boundaries. "I was already married with a child, so they begged my husband. I had to sell off all the provisions quickly and pack my things ready for the trip with my child while my husband stayed behind." Madam Rebecca would never return to her first husband in Nigeria and had to remarry in Côte d'Ivoire. Now 80 years old, she is one of many Ejigbo women who migrate to Côte d'Ivoire daily. Decades ago, economic exigencies and limited opportunities pushed many women to seek a better life in Côte d'Ivoire. In recent times, the exodus has persisted, weaving stories of migration into the everyday life of the quiet streets of Ejigbo. Although specific statistics are non-existent, a casual interaction with many Ejigbo people will show that most families in Ejigbo have multiple members in Côte d'Ivoire. The Osun State official website notes that out of about 1.2 million Nigerians residing in Côte d'Ivoire since the 1900s until the present, indigenes of the Ejigbo local government area made up more than 50%. Opeyemi Aderanti, Secretary of LABA International Transport, who has been with the company for over six years, confirms that the number of female travelers outweighs that of men. "Many travelers focus on business, and since women constitute the majority in trade, this may explain why the population of women migrants exceeds that of men. However, we do serve both male and female customers." For many, the journey across four nations is a transformative experience, opening doors to fresh opportunities and a brighter future. The trip to Côte d'Ivoire transcends the simple act of crossing borders to become an odyssey through the very essence of West Africa. These women travel for two to three days through Nigeria, Benin Republic, Togo, Ghana to Côte d'Ivoire. "When I first approached the Seme border in Lagos, my heart was pounding. I had never crossed an international border before, and the chaos around me was overwhelming," recalls Sewa Abidoye. "Crossing into Benin Republic, I felt a rush of relief mixed with apprehension. The language changed, and the environment felt more foreign. I realized I was beginning a journey into unfamiliar physical and emotional territory." Sewa was mesmerized by the lush green landscapes and lively market scenes in Togo. The border process was quicker in Ghana where the air was filled with music and energy. "When I finally arrived at the Côte d'Ivoire border in Noé, I felt both exhausted and excited. I looked around and saw people bustling with purpose and felt a sense of hope." But it was a different travel experience when Rebecca embarked on her journey decades ago. She recalls that transportation to Côte d'Ivoire at the time was by ship: "There were no luxury buses in Ejigbo going to Côte d'Ivoire. When I learnt that we would travel by ship, I was afraid and skeptical about entering it, but I eventually summoned enough courage to board it." Salmat Oladeji, who migrated in 1982, shares her own experience of the journey: "Luxury buses plied on the road with the passengers' loads and luggage all in the vehicle. If the vehicle becomes faulty, it can take six days, a week, or more. It may happen in the middle of nowhere, and there won't be food or water. Sometimes, we eat only raw pepper with cassava," she reminisces. "Now, there are many options for vehicles. The luxury buses take three days to complete the journey, while the small vehicles take two days." According to the Migration Data Portal's regional data overview for West Africa, Côte d'Ivoire constitutes one of the top 10 migration corridors in West Africa and is the number one destination country for migrants within the region. As of mid-2020, Ivory Coast was home to 2,564,857 migrants, constituting 9.7% of the population. People move within the region partly because of a shared goal to strengthen regional economic ties. This has made it easier for them to travel freely, live, and set up businesses in other ECOWAS countries. For female migrants, policies such as the ECOWAS Common Approach on Migration (2008) have opened doors to new economic opportunities and personal growth while emphasizing gender. Freedom of movement reduces the traditionally faced barriers, such as visa requirements and lengthy border procedures, enabling women to pursue previously inaccessible livelihoods. Migration History, Routes Olalekan Henry Adebodun, a distinguished researcher in migration, gender studies, diaspora, and sociopolitical history, meticulously traces the roots of the Ejigbo-Cote d'Ivoire migration. "In the 1900s, two men from Ejigbo town named Alabi Emmanuel and Alhaji Muthahiru Saraki (Lawure) were the first set of people to migrate out of Ejigbo to Abidjan. Their prosperity attracted many from Ejigbo to Abidjan, and the movement has continued to date," he states. "The Ejigbo people had long decided to settle in Abidjan (Cote d'Ivoire's major urban center) for business purposes, and this is what they are known for in Abidjan. Although there are Ejigbo people in other West African countries like Ghana, Togo, Burkina Faso, Liberia, and Benin, to mention a few, it should be noted that those in this category are few." According to him, by the early 40s, wider opportunities for business ventures began to attract Ejigbo women to settle in Abidjan. "This was made possible because, in the early phase of independence for the Ivorians, they had no opportunity to import from their neighbors due to the assimilation policy instilled in them by their colonial masters," the historian reflects. "The influx of traders brought in goods from countries they could not import from, which made the transaction easy for Ivorians at this time." When asked what makes Côte d'Ivoire (also known as Ivory Coast) stand out among other African countries? "The favourability of the place. During festive periods in Ejigbo, traders from Abidjan will come home with evidence of good fortune. They would build big houses to live in, or bring along big cars, putting on good clothes. Their contemporaries who migrated to other West African countries will tend to see that Abidjan is a home of fortune for Ejigbo people." Life and Trade in Côte d'Ivoire In Côte d'Ivoire, women from Ejigbo build new lives. Many become traders, integral to local markets and economies. As they advance, they build a network that surpasses cultural divides, sharing resources among themselves, offering advice, and creating growth opportunities. Madam Rebecca, a resilient entrepreneur, shares her personal experiences, which are a testament to these women's unwavering determination. "When I got to Cote d'Ivoire, I was asked to wait for some time before I did anything because I didn't understand French and could not communicate." This language barrier is a common challenge that many Nigerian women who migrate to Côte d'Ivoire face. However, they seek help from family members or other Nigerian women who have already established themselves in the country. "I told them I could not be sitting at home doing nothing, so I went to one of my aunts from my mother's side called Ayo Balogun, who gave me 500 CFA, and another one gave me 500 CFA." Madam Rebecca started selling bananas, chewing sticks, and other items in front of our house. "After two years, I could speak their language, and I started buying items in larger quantities and making more profit. I stopped selling bananas, and my new husband gave me some capital to start a business. I don't remember now, but it was less than ₦1,000." "Later, my in-laws told me to join my co-wives in the market, and we are all selling the same thing: cosmetics, baby items, and the like." Today, she is a prominent female entrepreneur in Côte d'Ivoire. According to a local Ivorian business owner named Madame Fatoumata, "Ejigbo women work hard. They bring new ideas and flavours to our markets. Watching them integrate seamlessly while preserving their culture is quite inspiring." Alhaji Fatai Atilade Bello Oke, a prominent figure in Ejigbo who was born and bred in Côte d'Ivoire, speaks of the dominance of Ejigbo women in the market. They own most of the major shops, making them the driving force of trade in Abidjan. "Their influence extends globally, with many travelling to the UK, America, Italy, China, and other countries to import and sell goods in Côte d'Ivoire." He also highlights the significant support they provide to their hometown. "Most of the funding, about 70-80%, comes from our people in Côte d'Ivoire. 90% of Côte d'Ivoire's Ejigbo population regularly send food and other essential items back to Ejigbo." Mrs. Ifeoma J. Akabogu-Chinwuba, a former ambassador to Nigeria in Côte d'Ivoire, notes, "Ejigbo women have played a major role in terms of ensuring peace and harmony among their people in Abidjan, and this was as a result of the special recognition that late President Félix Houphouët-Boigny gave to women in general that they should be respected in the country." Sales Assistant Abidoye Sewa migrated to Côte d'Ivoire ten years ago. "Life in Abidjan is more peaceful. You get value for your money in terms of welfare packages and social amenities, and food is relatively cheap compared to Nigeria," she shares. "With a little effort, a quality three-course meal is guaranteed at an affordable price. Distinguishing between the poor and the rich can be challenging, as everyone partakes in fundamental choices." Present-day Cultural and Economic Ties Food is more than just nourishment. It tells the story of who we are as a people and culture. In both Ejigbo and Abidjan, shared food and traditions reflect a long-standing bond between the two places. Madam Badirat Ayoni, born in Côte d'Ivoire to parents from Ejigbo, embodies this connection. As a second-generation migrant, she has balanced both cultures well. Thanks to women like her, the culinary landscape of Ejigbo has undergone a fascinating transformation. Ivorian food, with its unique flavors and textures, such as attiéké (a side dish made from cassava), has found its way into local kitchens, creating a vibrant fusion that reflects the interconnectedness of these communities. As she turned the key to her restaurant for the first time, she felt the thrill of a new beginning mingled with a profound sense of achievement. Her aspirations had finally materialized. As we speak, her eyes glisten with tears of joy and pride. Her hands tremble slightly as she arranges a dish of attiéké paired with grilled fish and spicy pepper sauce. "I felt a mix of disbelief and gratitude. After all the struggles, the sacrifices, and the long nights, seeing my vision of opening my own restaurant here in Ejigbo come alive was overwhelming." At that moment, she felt the heartbeat of the Ivory Coast pulse through every dish she served, bringing a piece of her adopted homeland to her community. "Opening this restaurant, I wanted everyone to taste the heart of Ivory Coast right here in Ejigbo." Badirat is one of the many entrepreneurs who have harnessed their migration experiences to create economic opportunities, selling Ivorian local food in Ejigbo and catering to the local population's mixed preferences. "I sell attiéké in Ejigbo because the majority of people here are linked to Côte d'Ivoire, and attiéké is one of the major foods they all love to eat. "It's been over 11 years since I started, and I am the second person to start selling it in Ejigbo. I started selling when I noticed that many people demanded it and that one person couldn't meet the demand. Later, many people ventured into the business, too." Comparing her business in Abidjan and Ejigbo, the 57-year-old says both are moving well. "If you have enough capital to invest in Nigeria, you will surely make it. But I travel to Côte d'Ivoire every three months because I still have business there. My children are there, selling for me. I take items like soft drinks to Abidjan and return with attiéké in large quantities." But why did she return at all? "No matter how long you stay abroad, your home remains your home. I decided to return and stay in my hometown to explore." As migration continues to surge, so does the linguistic exchange between Ejigbo and Côte d'Ivoire. Many Ejigbo residents incorporate it into their daily interactions, and this boosts the connection between Anglophone and Francophone West Africa. Over time, many in Ejigbo have adopted French, the official language of Côte d'Ivoire, reflecting their deep economic and cultural ties. Adeleke Folashade is one of many Ejigbos who weave French into their conversations, embodying how cultures blend through trade and migration. She migrated to Abidjan three years ago and recently made a home visit to check on her family in Nigeria. She was one of the women waiting to board the Abidjan bus from Ejigbo. The 38-year-old businesswoman who sells wholesale building materials in Côte d'Ivoire says, "Many of us now speak French fluently because it helps us connect better with our Ivorian neighbors and expand our trade." Stepping into the bustling hub that is Ejigbo Market immerses visitors in a lively atmosphere that showcases the market's role as a place of trade, the rich exchange of goods and stories across West Africa. The goods, sourced from Ejigbo and Côte d'Ivoire, reflect the two regions' strong cultural ties. Many Ivorian items—soap, aromatic spices, farming implements, and colourful wax prints—are available in Ejigbo Market. Titilayo Adekunle is based in Osogbo, the Osun state capital. She goes to Ejigbo every Saturday to sell clothing materials in bulk and retail. She has run this business for 30 years and has many buyers among women in Côte d'Ivoire. "I have customers from Côte d'Ivoire. Some have bought from me for five years, some for three years, and some just about a year ago. We have many, and business has been good. "Ejigbo women in Côte d'Ivoire patronize us more than the people in Nigeria. We communicate through WhatsApp. They will check what I have, choose, and pay. Then, I will send their items through the vehicles that go to Côte d'Ivoire. "All of them are Yorubas from Ejigbo, so we communicate in Yoruba because I don't understand French. They only speak French with people from Côte d'Ivoire or those who have stayed there and returned home." Chief Janet Oguntola, the Iyaloja (leader of the market women) of Ejigbo, shared that, "Ivory Coast is the economic pot of the people of Ejigbo. Imported products from Abidjan are strong, unique, and cheap. Our farmers bring food crops such as maize, yam, cassava, and palm wine from over there. They also cultivate cocoa, kola nut and oil palm.' Returnees and Impact on Ejigbo Women like Madam Rebecca reinvest in their communities, opening businesses, mentoring others, and strengthening bonds across borders. They bring a unique perspective that blends their Yoruba heritage with Ivorian influences. Madam Rebecca is one of those who invested in modern buildings, changing the face of Ejigbo. Alhaja Aolat Jimoh (a.k.a. Iya Oko Messer), a businesswoman in Ejigbo Market, is among the Ejigbo women who spent decades in Côte d'Ivoire and returned to their homeland. Many of these women have resumed their businesses with a fresh outlook upon returning home. Whether they re-establish their former trade or launch new ventures, they are committed to revitalizing the local economy. They introduce high-demand goods from Côte d'Ivoire, and their businesses flourish as they connect suppliers in Côte d'Ivoire with consumers back home. The 70-year-old went to Abidjan as a spinster and later married there. When her husband moved to Ejigbo, Alhaja Aolat returned with him, but some of her children are still in Côte d'Ivoire and have taken over the shop while she continues her business in Ejigbo. Another returnee is Musili Akinrinola. "My parents took my siblings and me there and had some others there, too. Our forefathers used to be businessmen who took my parents to Abidjan. Back then, they used to buy goods from Lagos, Ibadan, Ejigbo, and many other places and bring them to Abidjan. "I got married in Abidjan. Later, we started the business, travelling to Lagos and Ibadan to buy and sell items in Abidjan and its environs." The businesswoman who sells household items says, "People in Côte d'Ivoire love things from Nigeria, just as we also love things from their country; that is why trading is facilitated." Yet, some women in Ejigbo stand firm, refusing to succumb to the pull of migration. Instead, they choose to nurture their entrepreneurial spirit within their home communities. Rafatu Usman is a food stall owner who has been in the business for over two decades. She expresses her preference for home. "I have never been to Abidjan before," she asserts. 'I received many advances and even invites from my friends and family, but I declined. My husband does not like me to go. I have many in-laws there, but I don't want to go to Côte d'Ivoire." When asked how business is in Ejigbo, she replies, "It's paying my bills, and I am okay with that. I do not have any regrets whatsoever." However, migration has led to significant socio-economic changes in Ejigbo. In many cases, returnees contribute to revitalizing the village, which was previously isolated and underdeveloped, by bringing back new ideas, skills, and resources. They invest their savings in Ejigbo, improving local economic conditions, and increasing money circulation within the community. Hon. Tajudeen Oladipupo, the Secretary of Ejigbo Development, describes the migration for greener pastures as good, adding that travelling is part of education and civilization. However, he says they cannot all migrate. People are seeking greener pastures; people are looking for survival; people are living on the impression others give them about Côte d'Ivoire that life is easier there than in Nigeria; that's why people are trooping there," states Oladipupo, a former vice chairman of Ejigbo local government. Our people are travelling to Côte d'Ivoire, which is good, but we cannot all go there because we have individual differences. It may not be relevant to some people because of their profession, or the projects they are working on may not be applicable in the French-speaking country." Nevertheless, he says that most of those who went there returned with good fortune. "They have contributed a lot to the economy. Some of them who made money there have come home to invest in businesses like filling stations, schools, hotels, event centers and trading in large quantities. "Ejigbo people in Côte d'Ivoire have also contributed greatly to our religious development by building churches and mosques and assisting the religious associations here. Most of the beautiful houses in this community are built by our people who have sojourned in Côte d'Ivoire or are still sojourning there."> He also speaks to the specific impact of migrant women. ast="auto">"Women are at the forefront of trading. Our women not only relocate there, but they also travel outside the Ivory Coast to trade. From Côte d'Ivoire to Dubai, Côte d'Ivoire to China, to America, and Côte d'Ivoire to the UK, and when they come home, they invest in Ejigbo.' As they reintegrate into their community, they inspire others to leave their comfort zones, while reminding them that no matter where life takes you, the journey may lead back home to make a difference. Want to hear these stories in the subjects' voices? Tap below to listen to the Borderless Women podcast episode, where Ejigbo traders, returnees, and market queens share the laughter, struggle, and legacy behind West Africa's hidden migration trail. [embed link]
Business Insider
5 days ago
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Martell unveils the untold story behind its iconic Martell Tower: Establishing a new benchmark for experiential marketing in Africa
In a bold new documentary titled The Martell Tower – The Story of Audacity, Martell, one of the world's oldest major cognac houses, pulls back the curtain on what it took to build one of the most innovative brand experiences ever seen on African soil, The Martell Tower in Lagos. More than just an architectural marvel, The Martell Tower was designed as a way for Martell to connect with its consumers by sharing its 310-year history and deep knowledge of the cognac, offering consumers a premium, immersive and educative experience that brings the brand's legacy to life. 'Nigerians love premium experiences and Martell has become the go-to drink for those who love new experiences, quality and success' said Evane Chenuet, Marketing Director at Pernod Ricard Nigeria. Through its newly released documentary, Pernod Ricard lets the world in to see the innovation, grit, creativity and cultural sensitivity behind The Martell Tower's creation, reaffirming its position as a trailblazer in marketing and consumer engagement. From Vision to Reality: Building the Tower Bringing the vision of the Martell Tower to life was no small feat. The team at Pernod Ricard Nigeria faced numerous challenges, from marathon sessions of brainstorming and design, to navigating regulatory approvals, to overcoming delays caused by harsh weather conditions. Yet, with unwavering resilience, they accomplished what many would deem impossible: constructing the Tower in just three months, a testament to their commitment and audacious ambition. 'Every challenge was a test of our resilience as a team but giving up was never an option for us' said Ojie Ehianeta, Head of « Impress and Night Out » Portfolio at Pernod Ricard Nigeria. The Martell Tower Experience Located beside the Palms Mall in Oniru, Lagos, a city deliberately chosen for its vibrant energy and cultural richness, the four-level Martell Tower was unveiled in November 2024 with a 10-week flagship experience. This immersive activation invited Nigerians to step into the world of Martell, offering them a rare opportunity to explore the brand's history, craftsmanship, and legacy through a series of curated experiences on each floor of the tower: Ground Floor – L'Atelier Boutique: A Martell concept store fused with fashion, fragrance, and culture. 1st Floor – Cognac Tasting Gallery: Guided tastings of Martell's iconic blends, from VS to Blue Swift. 2nd Floor – Mixology Studio: Cocktail workshops led by expert brand educators. 3rd Floor – La Suite 1715: Intimate, elevated tastings of XO and L'Or de Jean Martell. Rooftop – L'Horizon by Martell: An open-air lounge with panoramic Lagos views, live music, and curated cocktails. The experience positions The Martell Tower as a cultural landmark by merging the brand's French heritage with Nigeria's energy, art, music, and culture. Martell as a Marketing Powerhouse In an era where consumers crave authenticity, brands that lead with intentionality, creativity, and cultural intelligence will stand out. With the Martell Tower, Martell has redefined what it means to stand out, not just in product, but in experience and storytelling. ' We will continue to innovate and strengthen our connection with Nigerian and African consumers through experiences that celebrate the culture, craftsmanship and authenticity of Martell' said Michael Ehindero, Managing Director at Pernod Ricard Nigeria. As global brands look to deepen ties with Africa's growing premium consumer base, the Martell Tower offers a case study in visionary marketing and bold branding. About Martell Martell is a 300-year-old cognac house from France, now known as the world's leading international prestige cognac. In Nigeria, the brand operates under Pernod Ricard Nigeria and has built a strong presence since 2012, with distribution centers in Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt. Martell stands for boldness, craftsmanship, and cultural connection, creating premium experiences that bring people together. About Pernod Ricard Nigeria Pernod Ricard Nigeria is a subsidiary of Pernod Ricard, one of the world's largest wine and spirits group. With a portfolio of premium brands including Martell, Jameson, Chivas Regal, Absolut, and more, Pernod Ricard Nigeria is committed to delivering exceptional experiences to consumers while promoting responsible drinking. The company operates with a strong focus on sustainability, cultural relevance, and consumer connection across the Nigerian market.
Time Business News
5 days ago
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From Field to Forum: How Farming in Nigeria Is Being Reinvented Through Online Communities
The agricultural landscape in Nigeria is undergoing a significant digital transformation. Modern Nigerian farmers are increasingly leveraging online communities to enhance their farming practices, moving beyond traditional methods to embrace data-driven agricultural decisions. This shift represents a fundamental change in how farming in Nigeria operates, creating new opportunities for knowledge sharing and economic growth. Statistical data reveals the magnitude of this transformation. In 2023, approximately half of Nigerian farmers owned smartphones, but by 2024, mobile internet penetration reached 85% of farming communities across the country. Agricultural applications and online communities experienced a remarkable 340% growth within a single year. This digital adoption is particularly significant considering the agricultural sector feeds 220 million people and employs seven out of every ten rural Nigerians. The most impactful transformation is occurring through digital platforms where farmers exchange critical agricultural information, from plant disease diagnostics to real-time market pricing. These digital platforms have evolved into contemporary equivalents of traditional village meeting spaces, fundamentally transforming the agriculture community in Nigeria. Traditional agricultural knowledge systems have been enhanced rather than replaced through these online communities in Nigeria: Market price transparency eliminates exploitation by intermediaries. Collaborative weather monitoring reduces climate-related risks. Rapid disease outbreak containment through photographic documentation and expert diagnosis Optimised equipment utilisation through community resource sharing Direct access to government agricultural programmes and subsidies Agricultural professionals like Hauwa, who cultivates pepper crops in Katsina State, exemplify this transformation. Previously, her primary challenge was securing reliable quality seedlings, as local suppliers were inconsistent, and accessing agricultural research institutes required significant time investment. The situation improved dramatically when she connected with agricultural networks linking her to a dependable seedling supplier in Kano State. Subsequently, she gained access to drip irrigation expertise from Plateau State farmers and identified export market opportunities through Lagos-based contacts. Female farmers are leading this digital agricultural movement. Having been traditionally excluded from male-dominated agricultural meetings, they are establishing strong voices within online community spaces. Women now manage some of the most active agriculture community groups in Nigeria, facilitating knowledge exchange on topics ranging from organic fertiliser formulation to advanced livestock management techniques. Online community farming networks are enhancing rather than replacing traditional agricultural methods. Members combine time-tested practices with modern agricultural technologies, sharing traditional pest control formulations alongside discussions about soil testing protocols and contemporary irrigation systems. Innovative approaches include combining neem tree extract applications (utilised by farmers for generations) with precision timing based on meteorological data. Another emerging trend involves traditional crop calendar optimisation using satellite-based precipitation analysis. Active communities focus on practical problem-solving initiatives: Photographic plant disease diagnosis with expert identification within hours Collaborative purchasing groups reducing input costs by 30-40% through collective procurement Harvest timing coordination to prevent market oversupply and price volatility Structured mentorship programmes pairing experienced farmers with expanding agricultural entrepreneurs These digital agricultural networks generate measurable economic benefits. Farmers report income increases of 25-60% within their first year of active community engagement through improved market timing, reduced input costs, enhanced crop yields, and direct market access. The Rivers State Fish Farmers Association network demonstrates this impact effectively. Members coordinate feed procurement, share breeding methodologies, and establish direct sales relationships with restaurants and hotels, eliminating multiple intermediary markups. Their collective annual revenue increased from ₦50 million to ₦180 million over two years. This digital transformation is attracting younger professionals to agriculture. University graduates are returning to family farming operations with agricultural degrees and digital marketing expertise. They develop YouTube educational channels, manage Instagram business accounts for farm enterprises, and build customer networks spanning multiple states. Internet infrastructure continues expanding into rural areas, integrating more farmers into digital agricultural communities monthly. Government agricultural programmes increasingly utilise digital channels for direct farmer engagement. Private sector companies are developing Nigeria-specific agricultural applications optimised for limited internet connectivity environments. This transformation represents more than technology adoption. Farming in Nigeria is evolving into a connected, information-rich industry where knowledge flows efficiently and opportunities multiply through strategic networking. Platforms like RIBA-X are spearheading this transformation by developing comprehensive communities that integrate traditional agricultural expertise with modern business practices. Their methodology – connecting farmers with mentors, funding sources, and market opportunities – demonstrates how online communities in Nigeria can unlock agricultural potential nationwide. RIBA-X validates how farmers can thrive when they access appropriate networks and agricultural entrepreneurship flourishes. Contemporary Nigerian farmers are cultivating both crops and connections to sustain the nation and generate wealth for future generations. The digital revolution has fundamentally transformed how agriculture in Nigeria functions, creating unprecedented opportunities for collaboration, knowledge transfer, and economic growth. Through online communities, farmers have overcome geographical isolation and traditional information limitations. They now access real-time market intelligence, expert consultation, and peer support systems previously unavailable. This transformation particularly empowers female farmers and young agricultural entrepreneurs who are discovering new pathways to professional success. Agriculture in Nigeria has established its digital presence, and this technological evolution continues to accelerate. As more farmers join these digital networks and infrastructure development progresses, we anticipate continued innovations and improvements in agricultural productivity and farmer prosperity across the country. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
