Tech Experts Unveil AI-Driven Solutions to Curb Post-Harvest Losses
Technology experts, engineers and academic institutions have unveiled AI-driven solutions to curb post-harvest losses as part of effort to revolutionise the agriculture sector.
The tech experts made the revelation on Wednesday, May 6, 2026 during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) under the initiative “Transforming Agriculture Through Artificial Intelligence in Uyo.
The project codenamed “Project TAT AI)”, is aimed at improving food production, reducing post-harvest losses and advancing smart farming systems in Nigeria.
The collaboration involves the Ibom Innovation Network (IIN), Nigerian Institute of Mechanical Engineers (NIMechE), University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State University and the Technology Incubation Centre, Uyo.
The experts said the initiative would focus on integrating Artificial Intelligence, robotics and Internet of Things technologies into farming processes, particularly in the areas of crop preservation, mechanized harvesting and precision agriculture.
Addressing journalists, President of Ibom Innovation Network, Engr Hanson Johnson,said the collaboration was designed to dress longstanding challenges in the agricultural sector through innovation-driven solutions.
According to him, the project seeks to reduce dependence on outdated farming methods by equipping farmers with predictive technologies capable of improving output and minimising waste.
“We are moving beyond the era of ‘farming by chance. By integrating AI with mechanical engineering, we are providing farmers with the tools to predict, adapt, and scale. This isn’t just about technology; it’s about economic resilience for the entire region,” he said.
Johnson explained that the initiative would also promote climate-controlled facilities aimed at reducing losses recorded after harvest.
Chairman of NIMechE, Akwa Ibom State Chapter, Engr Bassey Asanga, described the partnership as a practical contribution towards strengthening food production and supporting national development through engineering innovation.
He noted that the collaboration would create opportunities for the development of locally-driven agricultural technologies capable of solving labour and storage challenges in the food sector.
Also speaking, Director of the TETFund Centre for Computational Intelligence, University of Uyo, Prof Philip Asuquo, said the institution would provide technical support in areas including atmospheric intelligence, prototype development and technology research.
Manager of the Technology Incubation Centre, Uyo, Mrs Iniobong Elshaddai, assured the centre would continue to provide institutional backing to ensure innovative ideas developed through the partnership are transformed into market-ready solutions.
On his part, National Vice Chairman of NIMechE, Engr Ekerette Usak, said the initiative would help reposition agriculture through collaborative research and technology-based interventions.
Chairman of the planning committee for the event, Mrs Enoabasi Emah, described the partnership as a major boost for the state’s innovation ecosystem and economic growth drive.
They revealed some of the ideas developed under Project TAT AI would be unveiled during the Akwa Ibom Tech Week in November at Ibom Hotels and Golf Resort.
By Ndifreke Enefiok, Uyo
