Key points
- NBS and ARCN have signed an MoU to institutionalise Agricultural Science and Technology Indicators (ASTI) data in Nigeria.
- The partnership aims to improve agricultural research data collection, analysis, standardisation, and dissemination.
- Both institutions say the collaboration will support evidence-based policymaking and attract greater investment in agricultural research and development.
Main story
The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) and the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria (ARCN) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening collaboration on the Agricultural Science and Technology Indicators (ASTI) project and enhancing the production of reliable agricultural research data in the country.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, the Statistician-General of the Federation and Chief Executive Officer of NBS, Prince Adeyemi Adeniran, described the agreement as a strategic partnership that would benefit both institutions and contribute significantly to Nigeria’s agricultural transformation agenda.
According to Adeniran, the collaboration will improve the tracking, measurement and optimisation of agricultural research and development activities, providing policymakers and stakeholders with credible data for informed decision-making.
He noted that the institutionalisation of ASTI data would help strengthen the country’s agricultural innovation ecosystem and ensure that investments in research and development are effectively monitored and evaluated.
Also speaking, the Executive Secretary of ARCN, Dr. Abubakar Adamu Dabban, praised the NBS for successfully piloting the ASTI initiative, describing the programme as a benchmark for other African countries seeking to improve agricultural research statistics and data-driven planning.
The MoU establishes a framework for cooperation between the two organisations in key areas including data collection, validation, analysis, standardisation and dissemination within Nigeria’s National Agricultural Research System.
The issues
Nigeria’s agricultural sector continues to face challenges related to inadequate research funding, weak data systems, and limited access to reliable statistics for policy formulation and investment decisions.
Experts have consistently emphasised the need for robust agricultural research data to guide innovation, improve productivity, enhance food security and support sustainable agricultural development.
The absence of comprehensive and standardised research indicators has also made it difficult to assess the impact of investments in agricultural science and technology across the country.
What’s being said
Adeniran said the partnership represents a “win-win” arrangement that will strengthen Nigeria’s capacity to generate and utilise high-quality agricultural research statistics.
Dabban, on his part, commended the NBS for its leadership in implementing the ASTI project, noting that the initiative has demonstrated Nigeria’s commitment to advancing evidence-based agricultural development.
Both institutions expressed confidence that the collaboration would deepen inter-agency cooperation and improve the availability of data required to support agricultural policy and planning.
What’s next
Under the agreement, NBS and ARCN will work jointly to build institutional capacity, promote the dissemination of ASTI findings, and undertake evidence-based advocacy for increased investment in agricultural research and development.
The partnership will also facilitate the establishment of a Joint Technical Working Committee to coordinate implementation efforts and ensure the sustainable production of agricultural research statistics.
In addition, ARCN will be more fully integrated into Nigeria’s national statistical system, creating a stronger framework for data sharing and collaboration.
Bottom line
The NBS-ARCN partnership marks a significant step towards strengthening Nigeria’s agricultural research data ecosystem. By improving the quality, accessibility and utilisation of agricultural research statistics, the collaboration is expected to support better policymaking, attract greater investment in innovation, and accelerate the country’s quest for sustainable agricultural growth and food security.
 and the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria (ARCN) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding ...){kind=link}