By John Moses
The Nigerian Institute of Food Science and Technology (NIFST) has projected that the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) will significantly revolutionise Nigeria’s food sector, with the potential to enhance food security and fuel economic growth.
This was the central message delivered by NIFST President, Dr Bola Osinowo, during the institute’s 11th Regional Food Science and Technology Summit held on Wednesday in Lagos. Themed ‘Food for the Future: Shaping a Healthier and Stronger Nation Through Food Science and Technology’, the summit addressed the urgent need for innovation in Nigeria’s food systems.
Dr Osinowo emphasised that the deployment of AI and IoT in agriculture and food production could dramatically improve efficiency and sustainability. “Precision agriculture, powered by artificial intelligence and sensor technology, allows for optimised water and fertiliser use, leading to higher yields and reduced waste,” he explained. “Meanwhile, IoT will drive improvements in cold-chain logistics, cutting down post-harvest losses and ensuring fresher produce reaches consumers.”
The summit, he noted, was organised to encourage broader participation from NIFST members at the regional level and to address food-related challenges specific to different parts of the country.
Dr Osinowo highlighted the continuing challenges facing Nigeria and other developing nations, including outdated farming methods, post-harvest losses, and malnutrition. “Just as the green revolution transformed agriculture in the past, today’s realities call for cutting-edge, science-driven approaches that are sustainable and resilient.”
He also underlined the economic opportunities within Nigeria’s food sector, stressing that investment in food processing and value-added industries could generate employment and stimulate growth. “Food science also plays a vital role in nutrition through innovations such as biofortification and improved processing techniques.”
In her address, Mrs Kikelomo Amoreoluwa, Chairperson of NIFST’s Lagos Chapter, echoed the sentiment that food scientists are key to securing Nigeria’s future. “Food professionals must rise to the challenge of defining what and how we eat, through research and innovation – what we call ‘foodnovation’,” she said.
She stated that the summit would explore new ideas in food formulation, smart packaging, and product development, all aimed at building a healthier nation through technology.
As part of the event, secondary school students from across Lagos and Ogun States participated in quizzes, debates, and received awards. Ijaiye Housing Estate Senior Secondary School in Ojokoro emerged as the debate champion, with Oke-Ira Senior Grammar School and Homat Unique College placing second and third, respectively.
