FUNAAB Showcases Student Innovation at Ultimate Agri-Contest 2.0, Rewards Emerging Agricultural Talent

The Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) has reaffirmed its commitment to agricultural innovation and youth empowerment as it hosted the presentation ceremony for winners of the Ultimate Agri-Contest 2.0, a student-led initiative designed to identify and promote practical solutions in agriculture and agribusiness.

The event, held on campus on May 15, 2026, highlighted the university’s growing emphasis on experiential learning and innovation-driven education within the agricultural sciences.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Olusegun Idowu, described the initiative as a strategic platform for nurturing creativity and problem-solving among students in the agricultural sector. He commended the convener, Mr. Sodiq Hassan, a 500-level student of Animal Production and Health, for driving the project from concept to execution.

He noted that the competition reflects the university’s broader mission of translating academic knowledge into practical solutions, stressing that agriculture remains a globally relevant and economically viable career path. He encouraged students to embrace opportunities within the sector and to view setbacks as part of long-term professional development.

The convener, Mr. Hassan, explained that the contest began with 25 participants, later narrowed to 10 finalists after orientation and screening exercises. Contestants were tasked with developing scalable agricultural innovations addressing real-world challenges in productivity, processing, and sustainability.

Among the projects showcased were a mechanised farming tool developed by a student of Agricultural and Bio-Resources Engineering, rabbit manure production systems, and the conversion of fresh tomatoes into tomato powder—solutions aimed at improving efficiency and reducing post-harvest losses.

The initiative received sponsorship support from NOLAP Farms Limited, with additional backing from 5KG Farms, underscoring growing industry interest in student-driven agricultural innovation.

At the conclusion of the contest, Dare-Ojo Victory Olumide, a 500-level student of Agricultural and Bio-Resources Engineering, emerged overall winner with a ₦150,000 prize. Agboola Isaiah Adebayo, a 300-level student of Animal Breeding and Genetics, came second with ₦100,000, while Oniyide Kamaldeen Ayodeji, a 400-level student of Animal Physiology, placed third with ₦50,000.

Other participants received certificates in recognition of their contributions.

The event was attended by senior university officials, including the Senior Deputy Registrar, Vice-Chancellor’s Office, Mr. Moses Ayanda, alongside members of the university community.