Over 70 per cent of Nigeria’s rural population are estimated to be farmers.

Out of all these, about 70 per cent of its agricultural workforce is said to be constituted by women.

In the same vein, 88 per cent of Nigeria’s farmers are described as smallholders with fewer than two hectares of land, while about 40 per cent of Nigeria’s produce is said to be lost and wasted due to poor storage facilities, transportation challenges and absence of an effective cold chain.

Following the yearly loss, about 25 per cent of smallholder farmers’ yearly income is said to be lost to food deterioration.

Professionals have therefore harped on strengthening the agricultural cold chain and enabling access to market intelligence.

They believe these and more would bring tremendous economic, health, and environmental benefits for farmers and the growing population in Nigeria and many parts of Africa.

This is owing to the fact that agriculture plays a vital role in the economy and Nigeria’s rural population is particularly dependent on agriculture for their livelihood.

Some international organisations have also called for the deployment of technology-driven apps to mobilise farmers, dealers and traders for cold chain utilisation based on market and shared infrastructure information. amongst others.