The Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), has announced its commitment to addressing food security threats and supplying the entire city of Abeokuta and its extension in Ogun State.
Collaborating with the Ogun state government, the university aims to combat food insecurity and ensure affordable food for the community.
During a press conference to mark the grand opening of the 36th university convocation, the Vice Chancellor of FUNAAB, Prof. Olusola Kehinde, highlighted the institution’s efforts in utilizing its expansive 10,200 hectares of land for cultivating crops such as cassava, pawpaw, watermelon, and more to benefit the local food market.
Despite challenges such as a lack of funds, theft of farm produce, insufficient manpower, and a shortage of necessary equipment hindering mechanized farming efforts, Prof. Kehinde emphasized the fertility of the institution’s land, asserting its potential to guarantee food security for the state.
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The Vice Chancellor expressed FUNAAB’s commitment to revitalizing the agricultural sector and collaborating with federal and corporate entities to significantly contribute to addressing food scarcity in Nigeria.
He highlighted the university’s dedication to practical agriculture, including the reactivation of a staff farming scheme and the allocation of farm lands to interested staff.
FUNAAB has also ventured into commercial production of plantain suckers, fish, broilers, and rabbits in substantial quantities.
The institution’s Integrated Ventures has expanded operations, and the Wood Processing Unit has been revitalized, producing various wood products.
The Vice Chancellor disclosed plans for commercial production of Eucalyptus trees, with a nursery already established.
In terms of academic achievements, Prof. Kehinde mentioned that 122 graduates would receive First Class honors out of the 3,574 graduating students at the upcoming 31st Convocation ceremony.
The ceremony will also witness graduates with Second Class Upper, Second Class Lower, Third Class, and other divisions.
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