FUNAAB Reaffirms Commitment to Food Security as Federal Government Supports Farmers’ Cooperative

The Vice-Chancellor of Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, has reiterated the University’s dedication to advancing national food security, coinciding with the commencement of agricultural input distribution to members of the FUNAAB-Odeda Farmers’ Cooperative Multipurpose Society Limited under Federal Government support.

Speaking at the official presentation of the inputs on 26 February 2026, facilitated through the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Prof. Kehinde described the intervention as a strategic boost to grassroots agricultural productivity. He emphasised agriculture’s central role in economic resilience and national development, noting that the University remains committed to fostering partnerships that empower farmers both on and off campus.

Drawing from personal experiences during his early academic years at the University of Ibadan and his farming activities during the COVID-19 lockdown, the Vice-Chancellor highlighted the importance of resilience, collaboration, and perseverance in agriculture. He recounted a maize farming venture in the mid-1990s that faced challenges due to limited resources and delayed inputs, noting that persistence ultimately led to success.

“Agriculture is not just an occupation; it is a calling and a solution for the future,” he stated, adding that the distributed tools and resources symbolize opportunity, responsibility, and growth. He assured members of ongoing institutional support to expand productive partnerships and strengthen the agricultural value chain.

Mr. Ayorinde Isaiah, President of the Cooperative, expressed gratitude to the Federal Government for the timely intervention, describing it as a symbol of renewed partnership between government and grassroots farmers—the backbone of Nigeria’s food system. He explained that the support would help members manage rising production costs, climate uncertainties, and broader economic challenges, while reinforcing commitments to modern and sustainable farming practices.

Highlighting the Cooperative’s achievements, Mr. Isaiah revealed that members cultivated five hectares of maize and three hectares of cassava in 2025, with yam farming ongoing following land allocation by the University. He also noted a signed Memorandum of Understanding with the University for fish and pig production, a project set to commence soon. He acknowledged remaining challenges, including the need for additional ploughable land, dedicated office space, and more staff to enhance operational efficiency.

In his goodwill message, Prof. Jacob Olaoye, Director of the Agricultural Media Resources and Extension Centre (AMREC), praised farmers as nation-builders and champions of food security, stressing that efficient use of agricultural inputs and disciplined farm management are key to success.

Other speakers, including Dr. Emmanuel Bankole, Ag. Director of the Directorate of University Farms (DUFARMS); Mr. John Salako, representing the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security; and Mr. Kabiru Bakare, Assistant Director, Ministry of Community Development and Cooperatives, commended the Cooperative’s dedication and growth, noting its positive impact on both the University community and wider society.

Dignitaries in attendance included Mr. Valentine Egbuna, representative of the Bursar; Mr. Kehinde Ajayi, Ag. Director of Internal Audit; and Comrade Olurotimi Fasunwon, former SSANU-FUNAAB Chairman, among others.