FUNAAB VC Calls for Collective Action to Tackle Food Insecurity at NIPR Ogun State Colloquium

In a resounding call for unity and collaboration, the Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), Professor Babatunde Kehinde, urged stakeholders to join forces in overcoming challenges hindering Nigeria's progress towards the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in eradicating hunger and ensuring food security.

Professor Kehinde made these remarks during the 2024 Annual Colloquium of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Ogun State Chapter, held on October 3, 2024, at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Abeokuta. Themed “Galvanising Public and Private Stakeholders Toward Addressing Food Crisis in Nigeria: Public Relations as Key Driver,” the event attracted prominent figures from academia, public relations, and government.

In his address, Professor Kehinde commended NIPR for prioritizing discussions on food security, emphasizing that achieving food security in Nigeria requires a collective effort from academia, government, and the private sector. He highlighted FUNAAB's commitment to this cause, citing a recent Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Nourished Choice Foods Ltd. aimed at reducing food costs and enhancing production and distribution.

The Vice-Chancellor showcased several of FUNAAB's agricultural initiatives, including the ongoing harvest of a 2-hectare tomato farm managed by students and the establishment of a 22-hectare Cassava Bio-Ethanol Farm. He reiterated that FUNAAB’s role is to equip students with the necessary skills to contribute to the agricultural sector, rather than to directly feed the nation. He proudly noted that FUNAAB has been recognized as the Best University of Agriculture in Africa and the 7th best globally.

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, represented by Hon. Bolu Owotomo, Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, addressed the challenges of food insecurity, emphasizing the need for collaborative action beyond government initiatives. He reiterated the importance of public relations in fostering relationships and changing perceptions to promote agriculture as a sustainable enterprise.

Dr. Ike Neliaku, the NIPR President, echoed the call for increased focus on mechanized farming and sustainable agricultural practices, urging public relations professionals to champion agriculture as a viable business.

Mrs. Oluwaseun Boye, Chairperson of the NIPR Ogun Chapter, welcomed participants, describing the colloquium as a call to action and highlighting the critical role of institutions like FUNAAB in advancing food development through research and innovation.

The event culminated in the presentation of awards, including an Award of Excellence to FUNAAB for its corporate social responsibility efforts and recognition for Governor Dapo Abiodun’s support for food security initiatives in Ogun State.

The 2024 NIPR Ogun State Colloquium successfully brought together key stakeholders to address Nigeria’s pressing food insecurity issues, underscoring the essential role of public relations in shaping agricultural narratives and fostering collaboration among all sectors involved.