The National Agricultural Seed Council (NASC) has deployed SeedTracker and SeedCodex technology to enhance the quality and traceability of seeds in the country.

These systems would among others combat counterfeit seeds and ensure farmers have access to high-quality, certified seeds for increased productivity and food security.

The Acting Director General of NASC, Dr Ishiak Khalid, in a statement, explained that the SeedTracker is a digital platform designed to streamline seed production and certification.

He said the technology allows seamless communication among stakeholders, including seed producers, regulators, and farmers, by providing centralized access to crucial data such as seed variety, quantity, and availability, adding that the system simplifies compliance monitoring by digitizing the seed certification process and connecting producers with buyers.

He said farmers using SeedTracker will be able to gain access to expert agricultural advice, while policymakers and development agencies utilize the platform’s data for strategic interventions aimed at food security and economic growth, saying the system can adapt to different crops.

He said the Seed Codex, on the other hand, uses digital verification to combat counterfeit seeds through an electronic verification system, explaining that the Seed packages come with a unique scratch-off code that farmers can verify via SMS, ensuring the authenticity of purchased seeds.

Khalid maintained that through the implementation of SeedTracker and SeedCodex, NASC reinforces its commitment to innovation and farmer empowerment. These technologies aim to eliminate low-quality seeds, protect farmers’ livelihoods, and drive Nigeria toward food security.

He added that by providing farmers with certified seeds and expert guidance, NASC seeks to boost agricultural productivity and profitability.

He stated that NASC’s adoption of these digital solutions marks a significant step toward a resilient and inclusive agricultural ecosystem in Nigeria.