Kogi ACReSAL harvests first greenhouse produce
A landmark moment in Nigeria’s agricultural innovation and climate resilience was marked with the inaugural harvest of greenhouse-grown cucumbers at the Federal University Lokoja (FUL), made possible through a collaborative effort between the Kogi ACReSAL Project and the University.
The event, held at the University’s Faculty of Agriculture, brought together a high-profile delegation of government officials, academics, and stakeholders—reflecting the growing commitment of both state and national actors to sustainable agricultural transformation.
Representing His Excellency, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, the Honourable Commissioner for Environment and Ecological Management, Engr. Joseph Oluwasegun, alongside the Commissioner for Water Resources, Engr. Yahaya M.D. Farouk, reaffirmed the state’s dedication to advancing climate-smart agricultural practices.
“Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo is deeply proud of the collaboration between the state, through ACReSAL, and the Federal University Lokoja,” Engr. Oluwasegun stated. “This greenhouse is a tangible example of our commitment to climate-smart agriculture. We are cultivating a new generation of farmers equipped to ensure food sustainability for Kogi State and Nigeria.”
Barrister Ladi Jatto, OON, the Project Coordinator of Kogi State ACReSAL, described the event as a celebration of innovation, collaboration, and shared vision. “This moment is more than the culmination of a planting cycle—it is a testament to what collaboration and innovation can achieve,” she said. She emphasized that the project was designed not just to grow crops, but to grow knowledge, equipping students with hands-on experience in climate-smart farming within academic institutions.
In her remarks, Barr. Jatto expressed gratitude to the Kogi State Government for supporting the ongoing agricultural revolution, and to the World Bank and ACReSAL National Office for their guidance and partnership in driving sustainability-focused initiatives.
Professor Olayemi Akinwumi, Vice-Chancellor of FUL, lauded the project’s transformative impact. He noted that ACReSAL’s support had extended beyond greenhouse construction to the provision of seeds, establishment of orchards, and empowerment of farmers. “Today’s harvest symbolises growth, resilience, and productivity,” he remarked, adding that it bridges the gap between classroom theory and field practice—anchoring the University’s mission of promoting entrepreneurship and sustainable livelihoods.
Honourable Jubril Abu, Member representing Ajaokuta State Constituency and Chairman of the House Oversight Committee on Environment, hailed the project as a model of strategic partnership. He commended its technical precision and environmental value, promising continued legislative support for initiatives that integrate sustainability and innovation.
The event concluded with an interactive tour of the greenhouse facility, where attendees engaged with student farmers and celebrated the symbolic cucumber harvest—a clear sign that a new chapter in climate-resilient agriculture has begun in Kogi State.
Source: Tribune Online
Expert Review for Agri-Food Stakeholders
The Federal University Lokoja–Kogi ACReSAL greenhouse harvest represents a strategic leap in Nigeria’s journey toward climate-resilient and innovation-driven agriculture. It is a shining example of how academia, government, and international partners can jointly drive sustainable food systems by investing in both technology and people.
- This project demonstrates how climate-smart infrastructure, such as greenhouses, can de-risk agriculture from unpredictable weather, enabling year-round production and consistent market supply. Beyond the cucumbers harvested, the greater yield here is knowledge—students and local farmers are gaining practical exposure to controlled-environment agriculture, positioning them for future agri-tech opportunities.
- The integration of academia into agricultural transformation is a crucial shift from traditional farming to data-driven, research-backed food production. It ensures that universities evolve into living laboratories where innovation is tested, scaled, and transferred to rural communities.
- The role of government and multilateral support through ACReSAL and the World Bank highlights how sustainable partnerships can translate funding into tangible results. By combining financial investment with local implementation, such collaborations build lasting systems for resilience and productivity.
- From a policy standpoint, this initiative offers a replicable model for other states and institutions seeking to link education, environmental conservation, and agribusiness. If sustained, it could help Nigeria reduce post-harvest losses, improve food security, and attract climate finance into the agricultural sector.
In conclusion, the FUL greenhouse harvest is more than a ceremonial event—it’s a blueprint for the future of agrifood innovation in Nigeria. It signals that sustainable agriculture is achievable when research, technology, and governance align with shared purpose. If scaled nationwide, such climate-smart interventions could redefine agricultural education, youth engagement, and food production, setting Nigeria firmly on the path toward a resilient and competitive agri-economy.”
