BUSINESS

NIGERIAN FARMERS URGED TO FOCUS ON SMART, HIGH-PROFIT FARMING
At a time when many Nigerian farmers still cling to age-old methods, a new voice is challenging them to rethink their approach. Mr. Samson Ogbole, Chief Executive of Soilless Farm Lab, has called on farmers across the country to invest wisely by shifting from long-term, risky crops to smarter, high-return ventures.
Speaking recently at the “BIC Soilless Concept Master Class on Hydroponics and Agribusiness Management” in Ogun State, Ogbole stressed that farmers need to start thinking like entrepreneurs.
“We must begin to think like business people. Every naira we put into farming should work for us quickly and sustainably,” he told a gathering of farmers, agronomists, and agribusiness enthusiasts.
Ogbole, known for promoting modern farming, pointed out that relying on crops with long gestation periods or those vulnerable to unpredictable weather is no longer practical. Instead, he encouraged farmers to look into ventures that offer quicker, more reliable returns.
One of his top recommendations? Greenhouse vegetable farming.
According to Ogbole, vegetables grown in greenhouses can be harvested within weeks, compared to many traditional crops that take several months or years. This means farmers can enjoy a steady stream of income throughout the year.
He highlighted other major benefits of greenhouse farming, such as:
✅ Protection from harsh weather, pests, and diseases
✅ Consistent high-quality yields
✅ The ability to grow and harvest all year round, meeting off-season demand and attracting higher prices.
“The future of Nigerian agriculture lies in innovation. We must embrace technologies and smart business strategies that prioritize efficiency and profits while being sustainable,” he said.
The master class also gave participants hands-on training in hydroponics and agribusiness management, equipping them with practical knowledge to start or improve their own ventures.
Ogbole’s message was clear: for Nigerian farmers to thrive, they must step into the future of agriculture — one driven by smart investments, modern techniques, and a clear focus on maximizing returns.
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