Agrify, an NGO in partnership with the Tabitha Cumi Foundation (TCF), has introduced an AI-powered agricultural tool and distributed biochar to farmers in Zuma Community, FCT, to boost productivity.
The initiative took place on Tuesday in Abuja to mark World Environment Day 2026 and targeted farmers and community leaders, promoting sustainable farming and environmental care.
Mr. Ayodele Erinle, founder of Agrify, explained that the platform, “Agrify AI,” was created to address poor traceability in Nigeria’s agriculture sector.
“Inadequate information about the sources and processes of food production hampers efforts to trace practices and ensure accountability,” he said.
“Agrify AI enables farmers to input details like crop type and location to receive tailored advice and recommendations for farming methods, including the use of biochar and other soil enhancers,” Erinle added.
Farmers can also ask questions via the platform for practical guidance on improving yields and farm management.
“The system helps document farming activities by allowing farmers to submit photos and reports showing conditions before and after using recommended inputs,” he explained.
Erinle noted that the platform promotes low-cost solutions by suggesting locally sourced organic fertilizers made from agricultural waste, reducing reliance on expensive inputs.
He emphasized that the project aims to improve food production and household welfare, ultimately helping farming families stay nourished and support children’s education.
“When farmers succeed, families become more food secure, and children can stay in school,” he said.
Initially designed for 100 farmers, the program attracted more participants than expected. Priority was given to farmers with smartphones, as the Agrify AI app offers digital agronomic support and monitoring tools.
“We prioritized farmers who could interact with the app because monitoring is key during the pilot phase,” Erinle said.
Farmers selected for the digital component received hands-on training on using the app to collect farm data and access productivity advice.
Ms. Keren Samari, TCF Monitoring and Evaluation Officer, stated that farmers without smartphones were not excluded. They received training on proper fertilizer application and farming tools.
“This ensures everyone benefits from the program, either directly or indirectly,” she said.
The phase will assess the effectiveness of combining AI advisory services with agricultural inputs before expanding to other communities.
Mr. Ezra Iyah, Zuma’s Chief, represented by farmer Peter Saidu, expressed appreciation and assured ongoing community support for agriculture.
Beneficiary Mrs. Godiya James highlighted challenges like inadequate fertilizer, limited access to quality seeds, and lack of finance. She appreciated the intervention as timely and helpful.
“Many farmers rely on saved seeds because they can’t afford better varieties. This support is much needed,” she said.
Another farmer, Allahyayi Musa, with seven hectares, also welcomed the support, especially for maize farming.
“The fertilizer will help us improve yields, especially where productivity has declined,” Musa said.
Biochar fertilizer, known for improving soil nutrients and water retention, was distributed to the farmers.
