By: Usman Ibrahim Geidam
The Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat has taken a significant step forward by providing comprehensive training to agricultural officers on e-portal farmers' data capturing.
The program, which was officially declared opened by the Mandate Secretary for Agriculture, Lawan Kolo Geidam, underscores the importance of data management in informed decision-making.
He highlighted the significance of collaborating with G-consult Services, a renowned developer of e-portal applications, as an opportunity for agricultural officers to learn from one of the best in the country.
While addressing the participants, Geidam urged them to approach the workshop with utmost seriousness.
He emphasized the need for ethical data collection practices, stressing the importance of avoiding bias or any form of manipulation that could compromise the integrity of the data.
“Let me on this note emphasize the importance of accuracy and integrity in data collection. Let us adhere to the highest standards of professionalism and ethics. Ensure that the data we collect is reliable, unbiased, and representative of the ground reality. Our farmers and policymakers depend on the accuracy of the data we provide, and we have a responsibility to deliver on that trust.
‘‘The training program aims to equip agricultural officers with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively capture and manage data using the e-portal system. By adopting this technology-driven approach, the Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat seeks to enhance its data management capabilities, thereby facilitating evidence-based decision-making in the agricultural sector” he said
Earlier in his remarks, the Acting Director, Planning Research and Statistics, Mallam Umar Haruna emphasized that the utilization of e-portal systems for data capture allows for efficient and streamlined information collection, leading to improved accuracy and accessibility.
According to him, the e-portal system enables real-time data updates, data analysis, and effective monitoring of agricultural activities, ultimately contributing to the development and implementation of more targeted agricultural policies and programs.
“To ensure that the program is all-encompassing, all the Departments of the Secretariat and Agric officers from the 6 Area Councils are participating in the workshop” he added.
Also speaking at the event, the Group Managing Director of G-consult, Mr. Goofery Ajayi Sunday said that participants will actively engage in practical exercises, group tailored to optimizing their capabilities in global best practices in data collection and management.

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