The Centre for Climate-Smart Agriculture (CCSA) at Cosmopolitan University Abuja, in partnership with Gotomo Farms and Bin Khalifa Group, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a large-scale Climate-Smart and Digital Agriculture Project in Dikko, Niger State.

The initiative will commence with 100 hectares in 2025 and expand to 1,000 hectares by 2026, combining technology, education and market-led strategies to strengthen food security and promote sustainable livelihoods.

According to the MoU, the project will integrate artificial intelligence (AI), geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing, Internet of Things (IoT), precision irrigation systems and intensive extension service to modernise farm operations and enhance productivity. It will also serve as a training and demonstration hub for farmers, students, and agricultural professionals.

Dr Rislana Abdulazeez Kanya, Chief Executive Officer of the Centre for Climate-Smart Agriculture, described the partnership as “a new model of collaboration between academia and private enterprise to build a data-driven and sustainable agricultural future for Nigeria.”

Under the agreement:

• CCSA will provide research leadership, digital systems deployment and technical coordination. It will mobilise its academics, researchers, and experts in agronomy, aquaculture, livestock, biotechnology, irrigation and digital transformation systems. The Centre will also deploy over 300 students currently undertaking 12 months of training in digital innovation, funded by the World Bank and the Federal Government of Nigeria. These students will complete a 12-month paid internship at the farm and will later be supported with seed capital to establish their own mid-level climate-smart farming enterprises.
• Gotomo Farms will bring to the collaboration over two decades of practical experience in agroecology and organic farming.
• Bin Khalifa Group will supply high-quality agricultural inputs, offer market intelligence, and provide guaranteed off-take arrangements to ensure stable and profitable markets for farm produce.

A Joint Steering Committee (JSC) comprising representatives from each partner will provide strategic direction and review progress, while CCSA will oversee day-to-day operations through an appointed Project Director.

The partners will also make joint investments to expand greenhouse infrastructure, precision irrigation systems, digital infrastructure and market-driven research to foster innovation and ensure long-term sustainability.

Mr Abubakar Usman Gotomo, Chief Executive Officer of Gotomo Farms, stated that the collaboration demonstrates “how local agriculture can be transformed through innovation and partnership.”

Gotomo Farms, founded in 2013, is a leading organic and agro-ecological farming enterprise managing over 2,000 hectares across Niger, Kebbi, and Kaduna states. The farm produces vegetables, grains and oilseeds, operates a 50-ton-per-day rice mill and promotes through farmer training and community engagement (gotomofarm.com).

Alhaji Bashir Adamu Aliyu, Managing Director of Bin Khalifa Group, added that “by guaranteeing markets and leveraging technology, we are empowering farmers and reducing production risks.”

The MoU, which will remain in effect for ten years and is renewable, is expected to serve as a national model for sustainable and digitally enabled agricultural transformation.

About the Centre for Climate-Smart Agriculture (CCSA)

The Centre for Climate-Smart Agriculture (CCSA) at Cosmopolitan University Abuja is dedicated to advancing sustainable and digital agriculture through research, education and innovation. Its mission is to improve food systems, empower rural communities and promote climate resilience.

The Centre recently hosted a National Universities Commission (NUC) expert team on a resource verification visit, as the University prepares to launch its Faculty of Climate-Smart Agriculture and Innovation by January 2026.