The Vice-Chancellor, University of Abuja, (UniAbuja) FCT, Prof. Abdul-Rasheed Na’Allah, has advised farmers to adopt modern agricultural techniques to enhance food sufficiency in the country.
Na’Allah gave the advice at the 6th Annual General Meeting and Conference of Deans of Agriculture in Nigerian Universities (ADAN), held at the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Abuja.
The Vice-Chancellor, represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academics, Prof. Aisha Maikudi, said the conference would provide an excellent opportunity to celebrate the progress and achievements of the faculty established in 2005.
According to him, modern agricultural techniques are greatly dependent on advancement to enable farmers to boost food production for economic development.
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“In just over a decade, the Faculty of Agriculture has grown and flourished, emerging as a centre of excellence in agricultural research, education and innovation.
“We take immense pride in the fact that our faculty, initially comprising only four departments, now comprises 11 different departments and it has made significant contributions to the agricultural sector, nationally and internationally.
“Our commitment to nurturing exceptional talents and advancing knowledge in the field of agriculture has positioned us as a force to be reckoned with in the academic and research community.
“The faculty has been steadfast in its pursuit of excellence, providing students with a solid foundation in theoretical and practical aspects of agriculture, while addressing the pressing challenges of food security, sustainable farming practices, and rural development,” he said.
The vice-chancellor noted that the Green Revolution of the early years, which was preceded by mechanised agriculture, has prompted the new techniques which has led to farmers to feed more people.
He said science is evolving and Nigeria needs to wake up to feed her escalating population which is at a critical state of urgency.
“This conference provides a platform for us to showcase the remarkable achievements and breakthroughs in agricultural research, to share knowledge and experiences, and to foster collaboration among the brightest minds in the field.
“We have carefully curated a diverse range of presentations, panel discussions, and workshops that will delve into the most pressing issues of our time, such as climate change, technology adoption, sustainable agriculture and rural development.
“It is my firm belief that through this gathering, we will forge new partnerships, exchange ideas and explore innovative solutions that will have a profound impact on the agricultural sector.
“Our collective efforts and contributions will not only transform the lives of farmers and rural communities but will also contribute to the overall development and progress of our country.”
He commended the organising committee, faculty members, presenters, sponsors, volunteers and everyone who contributed to making the conference a reality.
The President, All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Dr Farouk Mudi, called on President Bola Tinubu to adequately fund the agricultural sector to boost food productivity and economic development.
Mudi said, if the sector was properly funded, it would help to create more job opportunities for self-reliance and food security in Nigeria.
