Former Vice Chancellor of Osun State University, Professor Labode Popoola, and Professor Adejoke Akinyele, Dean of the Faculty of Renewable Natural Resources at the University of Ibadan, have called on the Federal Government to cut out middlemen from the food and agriculture supply chain to improve food production in Nigeria.
Speaking during the 40th anniversary and reunion of the Class of 1984 from the Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry, University of Ibadan, Professor Akinyele emphasized that removing intermediaries would significantly contribute to food security in the country. She advocated for direct arrangements to move crops from farmers to consumers, bypassing middlemen.
Professor Popoola, who also serves as the Executive Secretary of the African Forest Forum in Nairobi, Kenya, highlighted Nigeria’s potential for food security due to its favorable climate and fertile land. He stressed that commitment and passion are essential for agricultural success. He also pointed out the need for hands-on training in the university system to cultivate interest and skill among students.
Popoola noted the irony of hiring foreign labor while Nigerians are reluctant to engage in agriculture and reiterated that with dedication and the right approach, Nigeria should be fully capable of achieving food security.
Discussion about this post