Experts point way for Nigeria’s food security

Labode Popoola, former vice chancellor of Osun State University, has said that commitment, passion, and patience are pivotal for the attainment of food sufficiency in the country.

The Professor of Forest Economics and Sustainable Development stressed that with good climate and fertile arable land, Nigeria can accelerate its food production given the right environment and support from the government.

Popòola made this known at the 40th anniversary and reunion of Class of 1984 Graduates of the Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry, University of Ibadan, Ibadan – Oyo state.

‘’Nigeria must have people who are committed to it agriculture to boost production. There must be passion and patience for it. My plea to the university system is to try as much as possible to train these students hands-on,” she said.

“There is absolutely no reason Nigeria should not be food-secure. We have what it takes. The climate is good, and we have the arable land. All we need to have is commitment and passion to drive food production.”

Adetola Ajetunmobi,a registered animal scientist and Senior Lecturer, Lagos State University of Education and incoming secretary of the union said that for the country to ensure food security, the government and other stakeholders should provide a conducive environment for agriculture.

Ajetunmobi stated that the government at all levels and other stakeholders should make optimal use of the vast arable land lying fallow in the country.

Also, Adejoke Akinyele, a professor and dean of faculty of renewable natural resources, UI called for the elimination of middlemen in the food and agriculture supply value chain.

“If the government can make adequate arrangements to get crops that are grown by farmers to the consumers so that the middlemen are cut off, that is what we need to look into to ensure food security’’, the dean said.

Kolawole Durojaiye who is in coming chairman of the association said for Nigeria to get more value in agriculture, it must have processing zones, and storage facilities as well as strategic reserves to curb post-harvest losses.

As part of activities to mark the anniversary, two best graduating students, each drawn from the two succeeding faculties, were honoured with plagues and cash prizes at the event.

The class donated two giant multi-function photocopiers to the respective faculties and donated 350 banquets chairs to occupy Trenchard hall.

They also honoured their former teachers who were represented by Tunde Ikotun and Janice Olawoye, both professors. The set also gave the achievers award to Abayomi Fasina,a professor, the VC of the Federal University Oye Ekiti on behalf of its several achievers.

The old students consist of several professors, serving and former vice chancellors, captains of industry, current and former executive directors of blue chip companies, multinationals and the Central Bank of Nigeria.

Also, it includes renowned scientists, farmers, teachers, public servants, and individuals in business and other impactful personalities among others.




Business Day