FUNAAB IFSERAR Hosts Seminar on Indigenous Knowledge Systems
FUNAAB IFSERAR Hosts Seminar on Indigenous Knowledge Systems On July 24, 2024, the Institute of Food Security, Environmental Resources, and Agricultural Research (IFSERAR) at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) held a seminar titled "Unseen Values of Common Agricultural Crops and Livestock."
Chris Oyeoku Okafor 
On July 24, 2024, the Institute of Food Security, Environmental Resources, and Agricultural Research (IFSERAR) at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) held a one-day seminar titled "Unseen Values of Common Agricultural Crops and Livestock" at the Postgraduate School Auditorium. The seminar focused on the often-overlooked benefits of plants and animals and their potential for enhancing human health and sustainability.
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Prof. Alaba Jolaosho, Director of IFSERAR, delivered the welcome address, emphasizing the significant but frequently underutilized value of various natural resources. She highlighted the need to recognize and exploit these resources for their health benefits and potential to reduce reliance on expensive pharmaceuticals. Prof. Jolaosho advocated for the standardization of natural remedies to transform food into medicine for improved living.
The seminar featured two keynote speakers:
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Prof. Samuel Oluwalana, a specialist in Forestry and Indigenous Knowledge Systems, presented on the "Unseen Values of Common Agricultural Crops and Livestock." Prof. Oluwalana discussed the health benefits of various plants and animals, including the use of unpeeled potato juice to remove heavy metals and the medicinal applications of the cotton tree (Gossypium barbadense) for treating brain weakness and testicular inflammation. He also shared traditional remedies such as bamboo root ashes for dental issues and a paste of earthworms and shea butter for breast tumors.
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Prof. Bamidele Oluwatosin, a former Director of IFSERAR, provided insights into Muturu cattle. She detailed their small size, hardiness, and trypanotolerance, noting that these cattle can weigh between 250kg and 300kg at full maturity.
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Additional presentations included Miss Sulaimon Shukurat's discussion on Indigenous Strength-Enhancing Forest Resources and Mrs. Alpheus Doyinsola's coverage of the medicinal applications of honey.
The seminar was attended by notable figures including Mrs. Oluremi Oyewunmi, representative of the Acting Bursar; Prof. Adewale Salau, Deputy Dean of the College of Plant Science and Crop Production (COLPLANT); Prof. Victor Olowe, former Director of IFSERAR; Mr. Basheer Alabi; and various IFSERAR staff members.
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The event highlighted the critical role of indigenous knowledge systems in harnessing the potential of common agricultural crops and livestock, promoting a deeper understanding of their benefits for health and sustainability.
