By Olasunkanmi Olajide & Tofunmi Adebayo
The Vice-Chancellor, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), Prof. Babatunde Kehinde has outlined Nigeria’s untapped agricultural potential, saying that its youthful population, favourable weather, fertile soil, and diverse crop varieties, which, if effectively harnessed, could serve as the bedrock for economic transformation.
The Vice-Chancellor stated this on Monday, December 9, 2024, while serving as one of the Panelists at the Opening Ceremony and Symposium of the 2024 Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Ogun State Council Press Week, held at the Aremo Olusegun Osoba Hall, Iwe-Iroyin, Abeokuta.
Themed, “Unlocking the Potential of Agriculture for Economic Development: The Roles of the Media,” Prof. Kehinde emphasised the indispensable role of the media in revitalising agriculture and setting Nigeria on a path to sustainable growth.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s economic trajectory, Prof. Kehinde lamented the country’s over-reliance on oil production at the expense of its rich agricultural heritage.
Quoting an age-old agricultural adage, the Vice-Chancellor, who is a Professor of Plant Breeding and Genetics, stated, “The best fertilizer on a farmland is the footprint of the farmer.” He emphasised the importance of active participation and dedication to agriculture, reaffirming
FUNAAB’s commitment to leveraging agriculture as a cornerstone for Nigeria’s economic development.
He called on the media to play a more active role in setting national priorities, holding institutions accountable, and seeking policies that promote agricultural growth.
Prof. Kehinde, therefore, advocated for robust media engagement to bridge the gap between agricultural policies and grassroots implementation, saying that the media must champion the cause through agenda-setting and strategic advocacy.
He, however, acknowledged the challenges of funding, urging the private sector to take the lead in driving agricultural transformation.
Speaking further, he said that FUNAAB has collaborated with some private organisations such as NOLAP, Harvestfield, and AUXANO Farms, among others by leasing lands in partnership deals for cultivation and providing professional and technical support to enhance productivity.
Welcoming dignitaries, including the Orunto of Owu Kingdom, Chief Abiodun Lasile who represented the Olowu of Owu Kingdom, Oba (Prof.) Saka Adelola Matemilola, Oluyalo Otileta VII, the NUJ Ogun Council Chairman, Comrade Wale Olanrewaju applauded FUNAAB’s contributions to agricultural development. He specially commended the Directorate of Public Relations for its outstanding efforts in promoting the University’s activities and successes through a robust media drive.
In the Chairman’s Speech, the Olowu commended FUNAAB’s significant role in showcasing agricultural innovations and driving national economic development. He appreciated the University’s contributions to raising awareness of agricultural advancements in Nigeria.
The event featured Goodwill Messages from notable figures, including the Hon. Speaker of Ogun State House Assembly, Rt. Hon. Oludaisi Elemide; Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Ogun State Chapter, Comrade Ademola Benko, among others. It also included a robust panel discussion with experts like Engr. Ayo Olubori, a former Ogun State Commissioner for Agriculture, Forestry and Environment, as well as Mr. Babatunde Kushimo representing Young Agro Limited.
