News in Brief:
– UNILAG has partnered with Soilless Farm Lab to spearhead an urban agriculture revolution, announcing plans for a new Faculty of Agriculture and a Centre for City Agriculture.
– Soilless Farm Lab promised comprehensive support through curriculum development, training to expedite the implementation of the proposed urban agriculture centre.
The University of Lagos (UNILAG) has announced a strategic collaboration with Soilless Farm Laboratory, a prominent agri-tech innovator, marking the institution’s dedication to urban farming and the future of food production in Nigeria
During a landmark meeting held recently, Professor Bola Oboh, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics & Research), representing Vice-Chancellor Professor Folasade T. Ogunsola, officially declared UNILAG’s dedication to an agricultural revolution focused on future readiness.
Effectively, Professor Oboh outlined the university’s ambitious agenda. These include plans to establish a Faculty of Agriculture and Food Sciences, subject to necessary approvals, and the creation of the UNILAG Centre for City Agriculture.
Essentially, the programmes are designed to position the institution at the forefront of innovative food production.
Professor Oboh reiterated the Vice-Chancellor’s directive for a demonstration project to be operational within 12 to 18 months. This, she said, was in line with the university’s commitment to swift and impactful action.
“We recognise the critical need for sustainable agricultural practices to support our expanding urban population, and UNILAG is prepared to lead this effort boldly,” stated Professor Oboh.
Soilless Farm Lab Pledges Support and Funding
Farmer Samson Ogbole, the Lead Trainer at Soilless Farm Lab, expressed his honour in collaborating with UNILAG. He affirmed that UNILAG’s vision aligns perfectly with his company’s mission to revolutionise agriculture through technological advancements.
Additionally, Ogbole pledged comprehensive support, including assistance with curriculum development, training programs, and the expedited implementation of the proposed urban agriculture centre. In demonstrating their commitment, Soilless Farm Lab donated five million naira (₦5,000,000) to kickstart the initiative.
The collaborative meeting concluded with an inspection of the proposed site, led by implementation committee members Professor Femi Saibu and Professor Ogunkanmi, alongside Sandra Attah, Business Development Manager for Soilless Farm Lab.
The technology company is driven by a vision to ensure ‘a world where food production is not seasonal because hunger is not.’
Soilless Farm Lab is recognised as Nigeria’s first dedicated facility specialising in soilless farming techniques. They integrate cutting-edge technologies like AI, hydroponics, and aeroponics to maximise production, ensure year-round food supply, and minimise environmental impact.
It collaborates with academic institutions, government bodies, and other organisations to advance modern agriculture. Their partnership with UNILAG for urban agriculture is a recent example of this commitment.
