By Juliet Umeh

As the fourth edition of the Business of Agriculture Masterclass approaches, the event’s organizers have expressed confidence that it will revolutionize Nigeria’s agricultural sector. 

Scheduled to take place virtually from September 17 to September 19, 2024, this year’s edition promises to be a transformative experience, with over 20,000 attendees expected to participate, freely.

The masterclass offers an unparalleled platform for farmers, agripreneurs, and anyone looking to break into or scale up in Nigeria’s flourishing agricultural industry. According to the organizers, “the event will span three days of intensive learning, featuring 11 sessions, over 30 expert speakers, and an exploration of 10 critical value chain areas within the sector.

“Prominent figures in the agricultural space, such as Mr. Eze Nwakanma, an authority in agricultural finance, and Mr. Steve Okeleji, a seasoned aquaculture expert, will lead the masterclass. 

“They will be joined by over 30 industry professionals who will share their knowledge on how to build profitable farming businesses, navigate evolving market trends, and adopt cutting-edge agricultural techniques.

“One of the standout sessions, AgriFinance, will dive deep into the financial side of agriculture. Participants will learn essential skills such as securing funding, managing capital, and understanding the complexities of agricultural finance. 

“The session will cover a wide range of financing options, including loans, grants, equity investments, and crowdfunding. Additionally, strategies for financial planning, risk management, and scaling operations will be discussed.

“Another notable session will focus on the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Attendees will be equipped with the knowledge to leverage AfCFTA’s opportunities for agribusinesses across Africa, enabling them to expand their ventures, access new markets, and improve profitability through strategic trade practices.”

They also explained: “The Agricultural Technology session will be particularly valuable for entrepreneurs seeking to start an agri-tech company with limited resources. 

“Industry experts will share practical strategies for using agricultural innovations to create profitable ventures. Attendees will learn how to invest wisely, navigate challenges, and adopt sustainable growth strategies, even with minimal initial capital.

“Additionally, the Aquaculture session will emphasize sustainable practices and the economic potential of fish farming and aquatic food production. 

“Uzoamaka Igweike, founder of Loom Craft Chocolate, will also be among the expert speakers, sharing insights from her experience as a leading figure in Nigeria’s cocoa processing industry. 

“Her entrepreneurial journey underscores the role of agriculture as a driver of economic development in the country.”

The Business of Agriculture Masterclass promises to be a game-changer for Nigeria’s agricultural future, offering attendees valuable knowledge, practical skills, and actionable insights that will empower them to succeed in this thriving industry.