The Federal College of Agriculture Moor Plantation has held its maiden edition of the World Laboratory Day celebration, with stakeholders emphasising the critical role of laboratory science in advancing agriculture and national development.

The event, held at the College Lecture Theatre in Ibadan, was organised by the Directorate of Technologists and Technical Staff (DITTECS) and themed: “A Day in the Laboratory: From Soil to Harvest.”

The programme brought together management staff, deans, and laboratory professionals to promote scientific awareness, innovation, and the importance of laboratory practices in agricultural productivity.

The Deputy Provost (Academics), Dr Victoria Okpeze, who represented the Provost, Prof. Jonathan Atungwu, commended technologists for their contributions to agricultural research, particularly in soil analysis and productivity enhancement.

In her welcome address, Director of DITTECS, Mrs Abimbola Ala, described the celebration as a landmark initiative for the institution, noting that it aligned with global efforts to recognise laboratory professionals.

“Laboratories remain central to advancements in science, agriculture, healthcare, and national development,” she said, calling for increased investment in equipment, training, and professional recognition.

She added that laboratory practice forms the foundation of agricultural progress and urged stakeholders to uphold standards and embrace innovation.

Delivering a goodwill message, a representative of the Provost of the Federal College of Animal Health and Production Technology, Dr Chidi Okpeze, stressed the indispensable role of laboratory science in sustaining human, plant, and animal life.

Also, the Association of Science Laboratory Technologists of Nigeria urged greater investment in laboratory infrastructure and capacity building to enhance food security and national development.

The guest speaker, Dr Kate Nwokocha of the University of Ibadan, described the laboratory as the “invisible backbone” of agriculture, noting that farming decisions are largely driven by scientific data generated through laboratory processes.

According to her, “Agriculture does not begin on the farm but in the laboratory,” as she advocated structured training programmes to strengthen the capacity of laboratory personnel.

She also encouraged students to acquire practical laboratory skills and urged farmers to utilise soil testing services to improve yield.

Other speakers, including deans of various schools within the College, lauded the initiative and called for its sustenance, describing it as a platform for professional development and collaboration.

The event featured a lecture session, interactive discussions, and goodwill messages from stakeholders, culminating in a renewed call for strengthened laboratory systems in the agricultural sector.