Flour Mills Prize for Innovation transforming food production – Farmer
By Rukayat Moisemhe
A farmer, Mr Samson Ogbole, says Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc. (FMN) Prize for Innovation (PFI) is promoting innovativeness and sustainability in Nigeria’s agriculture sector.
Ogbole made the assertion on Thursday in Lagos in his report: “A Case Study of Soilless Farm”.
He said that innovation was the backbone of sustainable food systems, adding that for four years, the FMN- PFI had been championing groundbreaking agricultural solutions.
According to him, the PFI identifies and supports visionary entrepreneurs who are transforming food production, processing and distribution.
The farmer noted that since its inception, the competition had produced winners, each securing vital funding and mentorship to scale his agribusinesses and contribute to food security.
“The journey from FMN-PFI finalist to an international agricultural innovator has been transformative for thousands of farmers across Nigeria.
“This multiplier effect exemplifies the vision behind the FMN Prize for Innovation -supporting enterprises that can scale their impact far beyond their initial operations.
“As farmers, we face many challenges, but knowing that there is real support for innovation and growth from big and reliable organisations, such as FMN, gives us the confidence to keep pushing forward,” he said.
Ogbole said that his innovation – Soilless Farm Lab, was bridging knowledge gap in agritech by focusing on skill retooling and upskilling for young people.
He said that the farm had become a hub for learning and innovation, ensuring Nigerian youths would be well-positioned to lead the next wave of agricultural breakthroughs.
Modupe Thani, Head, Corporate Communications, FMN, described Ogbole story as one of the most inspiring stories from PFI.
She noted that Ogbole was the first runner-up at the inaugural edition of FMN PFI, adding that he became a judge at the fourth edition, sharing his insights and experiences with a new generation of agri-preneurs.
Thani said that Ogbole’s journey from a promising innovator to an industry leader was a testament to the impact of FMN PFI in promoting excellence in agriculture.
She said that Ogbole’s Soilless Farm Lab employed advanced hydroponic and aeroponic systems that allowed for year-round cultivation of high-value crops without conventional soil.
According to her, the innovative approach conserves up to 95 per cent of water compared to traditional farming methods.
She added that it eliminated the need for harmful pesticides and reduced carbon footprint associated with food production.
“This nutritional density has earned soilless farm products certification from several international food quality organisations and secured it premium positioning in high-end global markets.
“Beyond running a successful agribusiness, Samson is empowering the next generation of farmers. He actively trains thousands of young Nigerians, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in modern agriculture.
“So far, over 8,000 agricultural jobs have been directly created, 19,368 youths have been skilled in hydroponics, and 23,565 farmers have benefitted from training programmes,” she said.
The official said that by identifying and nurturing ventures such as Soilless Farm, FMN was helping to address fundamental challenges in the country’s agricultural sector, from seasonality constraints to quality consistency.
“The programme’s focus on scalable, technology-driven solutions aligns perfectly with global trends toward more efficient, sustainable food production systems,” she said.
Edited by Ijeoma Popoola
Published By
- Agriculture and Environment Desk Editor, Website Content Manager.
Has also recently published
FeaturesApril 16, 2025Repositioning Technical Education for Nigeria’s development
AgricultureApril 16, 2025Stakeholders urge investment in fodder, grazing reserves
HealthApril 16, 2025NAFDAC alerts Nigerians to circulation of counterfeit Aflotin drugs
General NewsApril 16, 2025FG woos states, private sector participation in railway services
