ECOWAS and COOU Forge Partnership for Agricultural Development
ECOWAS delegation led by Engr. Emeka Iloghalu visits COOU to explore collaborative opportunities, focusing on fisheries development and youth empowerment in agriculture. COOU expresses enthusiasm for partnership, emphasizing commitment to addressing food security challenges and leveraging technology for agricultural sustainability.
Mary Nwaeze 
In a significant stride towards bolstering agricultural development and youth empowerment, a delegation from the ECOWAS Commission on Economic Affairs and Agriculture recently visited Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU) in Anambra State.
Led by Engr. Emeka Iloghalu, the Managing Director of Anambra State Fisheries and Business Development Agency (FABDA), the ECOWAS delegation arrived at COOU on Wednesday, March 20th, 2024. The primary purpose of their visit was to explore collaborative opportunities with the university, particularly in the realm of fisheries development.
During the visit, Engr. Iloghalu disclosed that the ECOWAS Commission had sponsored the training of 120 youths in table fish production through the Anambra State Fishery and Business Development Agency. This initiative reflects ECOWAS's commitment to enhancing economic activities and agricultural practices within the region.
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The Acting Vice-Chancellor of COOU, Prof. Kate Azuka Omenugha, warmly welcomed the ECOWAS delegation and expressed the university's eagerness to engage in collaborative efforts. Prof. Omenugha underscored COOU's interest in agricultural ventures, emphasizing the institution's readiness to establish fish farms on campus to harness its vast land resources.
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In an interview with COOUNewS, Prof. Omenugha reiterated COOU's dedication to addressing food security challenges, not only within the university but also in the broader community and state. She highlighted the university's aim to commercialize agricultural activities and empower youth in the agricultural sector, leveraging technology for efficiency.
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In response, Mrs. Massandje Toure-Litse, Commissioner for ECOWAS Commission for Economic Affairs and Agriculture, expressed enthusiasm about the potential collaboration and its implications for youth empowerment and agricultural sustainability. She commended COOU's commitment to driving positive change in the agricultural sector and aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals of "No Poverty" and "No Hunger."
Commissioner Toure-Litse pledged to explore avenues for collaboration and encouraged stakeholders to witness firsthand the opportunities within Anambra State for agricultural advancement. The visit culminated in a shared vision for promoting employment and sustainable agricultural practices, marking a significant step towards achieving food security and economic prosperity in the region.
