By Simeon Shodimu
In order to minimize harvest losses and maximise profits, and minimise harvest losses, experts are canvass for data- driven and science-based agriculture practices.
The experts who spoke at the second edition of the All Farmers Business Meeting 2.0 held recently in Lagos, said farming must evolve from traditional to precision to ensure sustainability and strengthen food systems.
Femi Dairo, chief executive officer of Rid Lab, called on government at all levels to create enabling policies for science-based practices to thrive.
“Data generated from the right diagnosis helps maximise profits, reduce losses, and protect food systems.” he said.
He emphasised that science-driven farming is not a burden, but a lifeline, offering farmers a clear path to profitability and resilience.
Dairo admitted that collecting quality farm data comes at a cost, but stressed its long-term value.
“It’s a more sustainable approach than relying on assumptions. Each of us has a role to play—government, farmers, media, and stakeholders—so investors can have confidence in the system,” he said.
He called on the government to make diagnostics a standard practice in farming. “We’re trusting that the government will make ‘diagnosis first’ a rule, not the exception.”
“We also hope diagnostic labs are funded as public health infrastructure, to guard standards and curb antibiotic misuse,” he added.
In her keynote address, Abisola Olusanya, Lagos State commissioner of Agriculture and Food Systems, represented by Olorunfemi Oniyide, the state deputy director of Fisheries, reiterated the state’s commitment to science-driven farming.Olusanya highlighted the often-overlooked impact of antibiotic misuse. “The silent yet devastating effects—ranging from high mortality in poultry and aquaculture to failed treatments and rising costs—cannot be ignored,” she said.
David Aliyu, veterinary technical manager at Rid Labs, warned of the growing threat of antibiotic resistance. He said owning a farm where animals are resistant to antibiotics poses a public health risk
“Only the right diagnosis, vaccination at the right time, and proper dosages can curb this menace,” Aliyu noted.
On her part, Adewunmi Dairo, managing director of Rid Labs, called for a shift in mindset, noting that the future of agriculture must be built on facts and data.
According to her, numbers tell a story that gives farmers an edge. Farming must be treated as a business and not guesswork.
The event convened government officials, researchers, and industry leaders, all aligned on one point: the path to sustainable agriculture and food security is paved with data.
