University of Ibadan Alumni's Seek Policies That Would Promote Agricultural Research

THE alumni of the department of Agricultural Extension, University of Ibadan have called for innovation in developing and implementing agricultural policies in the country.

Deliberating on agricultural production and its effects on Nigeria’s economy, as part of the line-up of events to mark the 40th anniversary and homecoming ceremony of the department, the alumni, in their various presentations noted that agricultural policies had to be well thought through if the nation was to be self sufficient.

Director General of Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA), Dr Yemi Akinbamijo, who was guest speaker at the event held on Saturday, emphasised the importance of innovative policies in agriculture to bring about wealth creation, food security and youth employment.

“If we must exploit the potentials in this country, science and technology and innovation must be fully utilised. This will boost agricultural productivity in Nigeria and aid the emergence of Nigeria as a food self-sufficient nation,” he said.

On the importance of innovation in agriculture, Akinbamijo added, “innovation is not the end. It is a means to an end. We are not short of science and technologies, and farmers. All we have to do is make these things gel. We have to translate these innovations into wealth creation, food security and youth employment.”

He also called for the joint efforts of the private and public sector so as the drive the policies.

Director General, Office of Economic Development and Partnerships (OEDP), Dr Charles Akinola, called for innovation in developing and implementing agricultural policies in the country.

Akinola, in his address, on agricultural policy and its implementation, harped on the need for stakeholders and concerned Nigerians to critique existing policies with a view to coming up with strategies and policies that meet today’s demands of agriculture.

“Concerning agricultural policies and implementation, we need to reengage and restrategise. For change to occur in Nigeria’s agricultural sector, innovation and technology should be introduced. With this, we will have great opportunities working with youths. Young people should be encouraged to embrace agriculture as this will boost agricultural production in Nigeria,” Akinola said.

The Head of Department of Agricultural Extension, Professor A.E Adekoya, appreciated the alumni for honouring the call and contributing in building and sustaining the department.

Other alumni at the event included, Professors Janice Olawoye, Terry Olowu, Idowu Oladele, Muhammed Yahya, Yomi Alfred, Dr, Idris Badiru, Dr Tola Oyedele of NIHORT and Mr Hamzat of IART.