Nigeria’s youthful population, favourable climatic condition, fertile soil, and diverse crop varieties, if effectively harnessed, could bridge the country’s untapped agricultural potential, and serve as the bedrock for economic transformation.

The Vice-Chancellor, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), Ogun State, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, who said this, lamented that the country’s over-reliance on oil production at the expense of its rich agricultural heritage is the genesis of the current food crisis.
[ad]
Prof. Kehinde, who spoke as one of the panelists at a symposium organised by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Ogun State Council to mark its Press Week, themed, “Unlocking the Potential of Agriculture for Economic Development: The Roles of the Media,” Prof. Kehinde emphasised the indispensable role of the media in revitalising agriculture and setting Nigeria on a path to sustainable growth.

The Vice-Chancellor, who is a Professor of Plant Breeding and Genetics, said: “The best fertiliser on a farmland is the footprint of the farmer,” emphasising the importance of active participation and dedication to agriculture, and reaffirming FUNAAB’s commitment to leveraging agriculture as a cornerstone for the country’s economic development.

He called on the media to play a more active role in setting national priorities, holding institutions accountable, and seeking policies that promote agricultural growth.

Prof. Kehinde, therefore, advocated for robust media engagement to bridge the gap between agricultural policies and grassroots implementation, saying the media must champion the cause through agenda-setting and strategic advocacy.

He, however, acknowledged the challenges of funding, urging the private sector to take the lead in driving agricultural transformation.

The don further stressed that FUNAAB has collaborated with some private organisations such as NOLAP, Harvestfield, and AUXANO Farms, among others, by leasing lands in partnership deals for cultivation and providing professional and technical support to enhance productivity.

The Council Chairman, Comrade Wale Olanrewaju, applauded FUNAAB’s contributions to agricultural development, commending the Directorate of Public qaRelations for its outstanding efforts in promoting the University’s activities and successes through a robust media drive.
[ad]