Agribusiness institute unveils professional certifications to strengthen farm, food security
As part of efforts aimed at strengthening farm and agro-processing management in Nigeria, the Institute of Agribusiness Management Nigeria has unveiled launched three professional certifications to address persistent gaps in enterprise planning, operations, cost control, quality management, and market readiness
As part of efforts aimed at strengthening farm and agro-processing management in Nigeria, the Institute of Agribusiness Management Nigeria has unveiled launched three professional certifications to address persistent gaps in enterprise planning, operations, cost control, quality management, and market readiness
The certifications, launched at the institute’s headquarters in Ibadan, Oyo State, are the Certified Livestock Farm Manager, Certified Crop Farm Manager, and Certified Agro-Processing Manager and are aimed at improving management standards across livestock farming, crop production, and agro-processing enterprises.
The Institute noted that many farms and agro-processing businesses struggle because of weak management systems and limited commercial discipline, rather than insufficient production effort alone.
Ayodele Olorunfemi, the registrar of the institute, speaking at the launch, said the certifications were designed to support the transition from informal agricultural practice to professionally managed agribusiness enterprises.
“Agriculture can no longer be treated solely as a production activity,” Olorunfemi said. “A livestock farm, crop farm, or agro-processing facility is an enterprise. It requires planning, financial discipline, market intelligence, quality control, and competent management.”
He said Nigeria’s food security and agricultural competitiveness would depend on increased production and the quality of management behind agricultural investments.
“The difference between an agricultural activity and an agribusiness enterprise is management. If we do not professionalise the management side of agriculture, productivity gains will remain fragile, and many investments will continue to underperform,” he added.
Olorunfemi said the future of agriculture would depend on competent people, credible systems, and commercially disciplined enterprises, adding that the Institute would continue to work with industry stakeholders, training partners, agricultural organisations, and development institutions to strengthen professional standards in agribusiness management.
The Certified Livestock Farm Manager certification serves livestock farmers, managers, extension professionals, consultants, and practitioners. It covers enterprise planning, production, animal health and biosecurity, feeding, finance, and commercial management.
The Certified Crop Farm Manager certification targets crop farmers, managers, agronomists, extension professionals, and consultants. It covers enterprise planning, field operations, soil health, crop protection, agronomy, finance, and produce marketing.
The Certified Agro Processing Manager certification is designed for agro-processors, food entrepreneurs, production and quality professionals, and commodity aggregators. It covers enterprise planning, production, quality assurance, food safety, raw material and inventory management, finance, and product marketing.
Joseph Udoh, the Institute’s Certification Coordinator, said the certifications were structured around clearly defined domains of competence and designed to assess practical management capability.
“Candidates will be assessed on their ability to apply professional judgement to real farm and agro-processing situations,” Joseph said. “The certifications examine how well candidates can plan enterprises, manage operations, control costs, maintain quality standards, address risks, and respond to market requirements.”
He added that candidates would sit for computer-based examinations through a secure, proctored assessment system, supported by official certification guides.
Bridget Akinleye, the Institute’s Communication Executive, stated that the initiative would also help position agribusiness as a credible professional pathway for young people, entrepreneurs, and mid-career professionals.
“Agribusiness has to be presented as a serious professional field,” Akinleye said. “Certification helps create structure, dignity, career progression, and professional identity for people working across agriculture and the food business.”
