News in brief:
-Â Two Nigerian universities are prioritising agriculture in academic programs and research to address the country’s food security issues.
– Achievers University emphasises collaboration and land acquisition for agricultural development, including a 50-hectare research and training farm, while JABU plans to secure 10,000 hectares for commercial farming.
Two Nigerian universities, Achievers University, Owo, and Joseph Ayo Babalola University (JABU), Ikeji-Arakeji, have announced plans to prioritise agriculture in their respective academic programs and research initiatives.
This focus on agriculture aligns with the growing emphasis on food security in Nigeria and the potential of universities to play a pivotal role in addressing this critical issue.
Achievers University’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Samuel Ayandiji, emphasised the institution’s commitment to expanding collaboration and partnerships to achieve success in its agricultural development endeavors. He underscored the need for land acquisition to facilitate foreign intervention and institutional expansion.
JABU Vice Chancellor, Prof. Olasebikan Fakolujo, echoed the importance of agriculture, highlighting the institution’s plans to secure 10,000 hectares of land for commercial farming and expansion purposes.
In addition to securing land, Achievers University is also establishing a 50-hectare farm for research and training, while JABU has secured 85 acres for its Department of Agriculture. These dedicated spaces will provide students with hands-on experience and contribute to advancing agricultural practices.
The universities’ focus on agriculture aligns with the Nigerian government’s efforts to promote food security and reduce reliance on imported food products.
Various stakeholders in the industry have opined that by prioritising agriculture in their academic programs and research initiatives, the universities are empowering the next generation of agricultural leaders. Subsequently, they laud the initiative, as it contributes to the country’s long-term food security objectives.
