We’ve observe  domesticated seedlings perform better than imported seeds- Ms. Roberts 

Ms. Chi Tola Roberts, as she is affectionately known, is a dynamic multipreneur whose journey has taken her from multinational boardrooms to the fertile fields of Nigeria’s agricultural landscape. In 2011, after an illustrious career with several multinational companies both within and outside Nigeria, Chi Tola made a bold decision to commit fully to her passion for agriculture. She is now the driving force behind Chitola Farms, a prominent name in Nigerian mushroom farming, recognized for its innovative value-added products like MushSoap, HiFive Bread (a mushroom loaf), Mushroom Fufu, seasonings, and pasta.

Beyond her role at Chitola Farms, Chi Tola is the founder of Women in Agricultural Sustainability Africa and the Mushroom Development Foundation Nigeria. She also serves as a trustee member for both the National Association of Mushroom Growers, Processors & Marketers and the Nigeria-Uganda Chamber of Commerce. Her leadership extends to various board roles, contributing significantly to the growth and development of the agricultural sector in Nigeria.

Recently, Chi Tola has taken on a new challenge as the Chief Operating Officer and Managing Director of Capacious Farms & Foods, bringing her extensive experience and visionary leadership to this new venture. Her impact on agriculture in Nigeria is profound, and in this exclusive interview, we delve into her journey, her passion for sustainable farming, and her plans for the future.

What inspired Capacious Farms & Foods Nigeria to venture into commercial scale agriculture?

We recognized agriculture as the new gold and an opportunity to gain foreign exchange through foreign exports.

How do you plan to achieve your goals?

We’re focusing on commercial cultivation, partnership, and contract cultivation, leveraging our access to lands in strategic locations. We’re also educating farmers on best practices and partnering with organizations to provide services and products.

What challenges do farmers face, and how are you addressing them?

Farmers lack information on crop management, soil selection, and chemical usage. We’re educating them in clusters, starting with basic information. We’re also addressing brush clearing and irrigation challenges through manual clearing methods and partnerships for mechanized tractors.

How do you plan to reduce food prices in Nigeria?

We’re introducing farmers’ markets with good proximity, reducing logistics costs, and encouraging southern farmers to grow crops typically associated with the northern region.

What’s your approach to seed sourcing and preservation?

We’re buying seeds from companies and organizations, partnering with agriculture universities and research institutes, and encouraging farmers to harvest and preserve their seeds.

Are you exploring domesticated seedlings?

Yes, we’ve observed that domesticated seedlings perform better than imported seeds. We’re working on packaging and marketing them.

What’s your vision for Capacious Farms & Foods Nigeria?

We aim to improve livelihoods, produce quality products, and make food affordable, going into every aspect of the agriculture process.