NSPRI empowers agri-preneurs to drive job creation, postharvest loss reduction
In a strategic move to reduce postharvest losses and promote agribusiness sustainability, the Nigerian Stored Products Research Institute (NSPRI) recently trained agri-preneurs on value addition and postharvest management. The two-day training, held on March 11–12 at the NSPRI Lagos Zonal Office, focused on transforming agricultural produce into value-added products, equipping participants with the skills needed for self-reliance and entrepreneurship.
Hands-On Training for Value-Added Agriculture
With 90% of the training structured around practical sessions, participants actively engaged in processing agricultural commodities such as grains, roots, and tubers. The program emphasized the production of high-demand food products, including:
- Bean flour
- Ground rice
- Odourless fufu
- Poundo yam
- Flavoured pap
Additionally, the training underscored the critical role of packaging in preserving product quality, enhancing market appeal, and extending shelf life.
Exploring Postharvest Innovations
Participants toured NSPRI’s facility, gaining insights into advanced postharvest technologies that extend the lifespan of agricultural produce. The institute showcased innovative storage and preservation methods beyond the core training curriculum, offering deeper exposure to solutions that mitigate postharvest losses.
Impact on Agripreneurship and Food Security
The event attracted a diverse group of in-person and virtual participants, including international attendees from the United States and local participants from Osun State. The Executive Director of NSPRI, represented by the Zonal Coordinator, Dr. Shuaeeb Oyewole, emphasized the importance of postharvest management in curbing agricultural losses, creating job opportunities, and alleviating poverty. He encouraged participants to become advocates for postharvest loss reduction within their communities.
Returning participant, Mr. Christopher, commended the initiative for its practical focus, expressing eagerness for future sessions. Others, including Mrs. Olayinka Immanuel and Mrs. Olubunmi Afolabi, praised the training for its valuable insights and real-world applicability.
Source- Tribune
Expert Review for Agri-Food Stakeholders
The Nigerian agricultural sector loses over 40% of its produce postharvest, translating to billions of naira in losses annually. NSPRI’s initiative is crucial in reversing this trend, equipping agri-preneurs with the skills needed to process and package farm produce for local and international markets.
Key Takeaways for Agribusiness Stakeholders
- Value Addition as a Revenue Booster
By processing raw agricultural produce into consumable products, farmers and agri-preneurs can increase profit margins. Products like poundo yam, odourless fufu, and bean flour have high consumer demand, offering new income streams for smallholder farmers. - Postharvest Loss Reduction as a Food Security Strategy
Addressing postharvest losses improves food availability and reduces the pressure on Nigeria’s food supply chain. This aligns with national food security goals and enhances export potential. - The Role of Packaging in Market Competitiveness
Poor packaging reduces product value and shortens shelf life. NSPRI’s emphasis on improved packaging techniques ensures that processed agricultural products remain marketable and export-ready, meeting industry standards. - Youth and Women Inclusion in Agribusiness
The training attracted participants of different ages and genders, highlighting the potential for youth and women empowerment in value-added agribusiness. By equipping them with these skills, Nigeria can foster job creation and economic diversification. - The Need for More Training and Investment
While NSPRI’s effort is commendable, scaling such initiatives across Nigeria’s agricultural regions is crucial. Government agencies, financial institutions, and private-sector players must invest in agribusiness training programs and provide funding for postharvest infrastructure development.
The NSPRI training is a step in the right direction for reducing postharvest losses, increasing agricultural profitability, and enhancing Nigeria’s food processing sector. However, sustainability will depend on continuous skill development, increased funding, and stronger collaborations between government agencies, research institutes, and private-sector players.
By embracing value addition, farmers and agri-preneurs can maximize profits, improve food security, and contribute to national economic growth. The next step is expanding this initiative to reach more smallholder farmers and rural communities, ensuring that Nigeria’s agricultural sector becomes more resilient and globally competitive.
