Last Updated on October 14, 2025 by Olasunkanmi Olajide
FUNAAB, Musarchy Farms Harvest Success in 7-Hectare Cassava Project —A Model of Research-Driven Agriculture, Productive Partnerships
By Olasunkanmi Olajide & Wuraola Dada
In a strong demonstration of the power of research-based agriculture and strategic partnerships, the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) and Musarchy Farms have commenced a large-scale harvest and sales of cassava cultivated on a 7-hectare plot, marking another milestone in the University’s pursuit of agricultural revitalisation, sustainable food production and agribusiness innovation.
The cassava project, which stands as a flagship of FUNAAB’s industry-focused collaborations, was part of ongoing efforts to turn research results into viable, real-world agricultural impact. The harvest has been yielding impressive tonnage and financial returns, reflecting the University’s commitment to bridging the gap between science, policy, and practice.
During a recent inspection of the project site, members of the Governing Council, led by the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman, His Royal Majesty, Oba Rasheed Ayotunde Olabomi, Odundun IV, Asoludero, the Aragbiji of Iragbiji Land, witnessed firsthand the success story unfolding at the farm. The delegation arrived just as farm workers were loading the second 30-tonne truck of freshly harvested cassava bound for market, a vivid picture of productivity, efficiency, and innovation in action.
According to the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, the initiative exemplified the University’s core mission of deploying scientific research to tackle real agricultural challenges and improve livelihoods. “This collaboration with Musarchy Farms is one of the many ways we are showing that research does not belong to the shelves. We are producing, we are processing, and we are proving that universities can lead national agricultural transformation through meaningful partnerships with the private sectors,” he stated.
Through the adoption of improved agronomic practices and cutting-edge technologies derived from FUNAAB’s own research, the cassava project has recorded significant yields while promoting knowledge transfer between academia and the private sector.
Observers say the ongoing harvest has reinforced FUNAAB’s position as a hub of agricultural innovation in Nigeria, an institution driving the vision of food security, job creation, and sustainable enterprise in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
As FUNAAB and Musarchy Farms continue to expand their collaborative frontiers, the project stands as a compelling case study of how synergy between universities and the private sector can power Nigeria’s journey toward agricultural self-reliance and prosperity.
