FCTA Trains Agric Officers on E-Portal Data Capture for Enhanced Data Management

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By: Zakari Aliyu

In a move to leverage technology for effective agricultural policy making and implementation in the Federal Capital Territory, the FCT Administration is organizing a comprehensive training to agricultural officers on e-portal farmers’ data capturing.

The programme, which was declared open by the Secretary, Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat, Lawan Kolo Geidam, underscores the importance of data management in informed decision-making.

Geidam 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.

Addressing 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.

His words: “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 policy makers depend on the accuracy of the data we provide, and we have a responsibility to deliver on that trust.”

He added, “The training programme 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”.

Earlier in his remarks, the Acting Director, Planning Research and Statistics, 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. It 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 programmes.

“To ensure that the programme is all-encompassing, all the Departments of the Secretariat and Agric Officers from the six Area Councils are participating in the workshop,” Umar said.

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 discussions tailored at optimising their capabilities in global best practice in data collection and management.