In a bold move to ease the rising cost of food imports and tackle food scarcity among Nigerians abroad, entrepreneur Adebowale Onafowora has launched an indoor farm in Manitoba, Canada, dedicated to growing fresh, indigenous Nigerian vegetables.
The project, run by his company Bic Farms Concepts, uses advanced hydroponic and vertical farming technology to cultivate vegetables all year round.
The aim is simple yet impactful: to make popular Nigerian vegetables affordable, fresh, and easily available to the Nigerian community in Canada.
According to Onafowora, many Nigerians living abroad often struggle to access authentic local vegetables.
“They arrive wilted, discoloured, and expensive, sometimes costing as much as $10 a kilo to import,” he said.
To solve this, Bic Technologies has introduced a system that grows these vegetables locally, using controlled indoor farming methods free from pesticides and herbicides.
“Our goal is to make these essential vegetables as accessible and affordable in Canada,” Onafowora explained. “By eliminating long-distance shipping and seasonal limitations, we can significantly reduce costs for consumers. This isn’t just about selling vegetables; it’s about connecting our community to their heritage and supporting their well-being.”
For many Nigerians in the diaspora, food is more than just sustenance; it’s a home link.
Onafowora describes the indoor farm as a “game-changer,” saying it allows Nigerians to get fresh, vibrant vegetables at a fraction of the price. “It makes it feel like a piece of home has been brought closer,” he added.
Bringing Farming Innovation Abroad
Onafowora is no stranger to agricultural innovation. In 2003, he developed Nigeria’s first localised biofilter for Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS) using pumice stone and crates.
He also pioneered commercial hydroponics technology in Nigeria, which set the foundation for this latest project in Canada.
Speaking about the nutritional benefits, he stressed how quickly food loses its value once harvested.
“The moment you remove a crop from its tree, it begins to lose its nutritional value. Unfortunately, most of our fruits and veggies come here dry. And though we have African stores, our fresh foods are still not of the best quality, and that is what we aim to address.”
In places like Winnipeg, where harsh winters can last up to seven months, the indoor farming system provides year-round access to nutritious, home-grown greens.
Onafowora and his team have designed these systems to be affordable and adaptable to different living spaces, from pavements to backyards.
The semi-automated setup costs about $500 and produces over 32 bunches of vegetables within a four-week cycle. It requires only 30 minutes of daily care and includes follow-up support from Bic Technologies to ensure users get the best results.
Energy-efficient lighting has a lifespan of around 10 years and provides the necessary heat and light for plant growth while consuming minimal electricity.
