Research Institutes, Colleges of Agriculture Crucial to Nigeria’s Food Security – Presidency

The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Food Security, Barrister Yejide Ogundipe, has reportedly spoken on the vital role of research institutes and agricultural colleges in boosting food production and ensuring food security in Nigeria.

Speaking at the quarterly meeting of the provosts of national agricultural research institute committees, Ogundipe emphasised that food security is a multi-sectoral challenge that necessitates strong academic involvement.

Ogundipe explained that academic institutions are central to advancing research, technology, and best agricultural practices, which are essential for transforming the sector.

She pointed out that climate change poses a significant threat to food security in sub-Saharan Africa, with desertification in the North and flooding in the South.

She spoke on the need for research institutes to develop climate-resilient crop varieties to address these challenges.

The Presidential aide also discussed the importance of training extension workers to teach farmers modern farming techniques, thereby boosting productivity.

She encouraged agricultural institutions to expand their focus beyond food production and prioritise post-harvest management solutions to reduce losses and enhance food availability.

Furthermore, Ogundipe called for attracting more young people into the agricultural sector. She stated that agricultural colleges and research institutes should foster agripreneurship by equipping students with the skills necessary to build successful agricultural enterprises.

She also urged the institutions to revamp their curricula to include modern farming techniques such as greenhouse farming, hydroponics, and precision agriculture.

Ogundipe concluded by pointing out that many academic institutions have large unused tracts of land that could be repurposed for food production and processing hubs. She emphasised the need to engage students and local youth in farming, as this would contribute to food security and help develop a new generation of skilled agricultural practitioners.