FUL Achieves First-Ever Screen House Cucumber Harvest in Partnership with ACReSAL

The Federal University Lokoja (FUL) has recorded a major agricultural breakthrough with the first harvest and ceremonial unveiling of cucumbers from its Screen House Farm, a collaborative project between the Faculty of Agriculture and the Kogi Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) initiative.

The landmark event, held ahead of the University’s 9th Convocation Ceremony, was attended by dignitaries and government officials, reflecting the continued transformation of FUL under the leadership of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Olayemi Akinwumi.

Representing the Executive Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, the Commissioner for Environment and Ecological Matters, Hon. Engr. Olusegun Joseph, led the state delegation alongside Kogi ACReSAL Project Coordinator, Barrister Ladi Jatto, OON, whose efforts have been central to the project’s success.

In his remarks, Professor Akinwumi commended Governor Ododo for his visionary leadership in promoting agricultural innovation and climate resilience. He also praised Barrister Jatto and the ACReSAL team for their enduring partnership, which has brought multiple benefits to FUL — including the distribution of improved seedlings and the planting of over 9,000 trees to combat erosion and enhance afforestation efforts.

“This harvest is symbolic and historic. It represents growth, resilience, and opportunity — a practical step toward bridging the gap between theory and practice for our students through all-year-round vegetable farming,” the Vice-Chancellor stated.

The Dean, Faculty of Agriculture, Professor Olufumola Alabi, described the Screen House initiative as both generous and impactful, recalling the process that birthed what is now the first of its kind in any Nigerian tertiary institution. She reaffirmed the Faculty’s dedication to fostering innovation and sustaining partnerships that drive sustainable agricultural development.

Delivering the Governor’s message, Hon. Engr. Olusegun Joseph reiterated the Kogi State Government’s unwavering support for food security, ecological preservation, and green growth initiatives, while commending FUL for setting a new standard in research-driven agriculture.