Augustine University Hosts 2nd Candida Adenike Afodu Lecture, Highlights Horticulture's Role in Economic Growth

Augustine University held the 2nd Annual Candida Adenike Afodu Lecture Series in Agriculture/Horticulture on November 27, 2024, emphasizing horticulture as a vital driver of Nigeria's economic diversification.

Themed "Horticulture as a Major Income Earner for the Nigerian Economy: Prospects and Problems," the lecture featured Dr. Vincent Umeh of the National Horticultural Research Institute, who highlighted horticulture's potential to reduce oil dependency through fruit, vegetable, and spice cultivation.

Challenges such as poor infrastructure, limited financing, and post-harvest losses were addressed alongside calls for improved technology, research, and policy support.

Vice-Chancellor Prof. Christopher Odetunde reaffirmed the university's dedication to fostering national development dialogue, with attendees including academics, industry experts, and students from Augustine University and Yaba College of Technology.

The event, endowed by Late Mrs. Frederica Abimbola Aina Omololu-Mulele, underscored the legacy of advancing agriculture and food security in Nigeria.