Last Updated on July 3, 2026 by Olasunkanmi Olajide
… Market Holds Every Five Days
By Raymond Osemene
The Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) has officially commenced operations at its Community Farmers Market, marking another milestone in the University’s commitment to promoting agricultural development, food security, entrepreneurship, and community engagement.
The market, situated along the University’s 3rd Gate, began operations today, June 29, 2026. The market serves as a central hub for the sale of fresh agricultural produce and value-added products from the University Farms, researchers, students, and members of the adjoining communities. The initiative is expected to strengthen the agricultural value chain by connecting producers directly with consumers while ensuring access to affordable, high-quality farm produce.
Speaking on the development, the Chairperson of the FUNAAB Community Farmers Market, Mrs. Tawa Ayelotan, expressed appreciation to the University Management for bringing the long-awaited project to fruition, describing the opening of the market as a significant achievement for farmers, traders, members of the University Community, and residents of neighbouring communities. According to her, the initiative would improve access to fresh agricultural produce while creating opportunities for increased income and enhanced livelihoods.
She explained that while the market would operate daily, its major trading activities would take place every five days, in line with the traditional market cycle observed in many communities. She expressed confidence that the market would grow into a vibrant commercial hub that would stimulate local trade, promote agricultural development, and further strengthen the relationship between FUNAAB and its host communities.
Some of the traders who participated in the opening, including Mrs. Chinyere Ogunji, Mrs. Motunrayo Jimoh, and Mr. Akinlaja Ogunla, separately commended the initiative, describing it as a laudable effort towards strengthening the agricultural value chain and improving the livelihoods of farmers and traders. They noted that the market would provide buyers with convenient access to fresh farm produce and other goods directly from producers, eliminating the need to travel to neighbouring markets.
Also speaking, the Baale of the host community, Chief Folorunso Ajasa, described the Community Farmers Market as a timely initiative that would promote agricultural development, improve access to fresh farm produce, and expand economic opportunities for farmers and residents. He noted that the market provides a central location where farmers can sell their produce directly to consumers, thereby eliminating unnecessary middlemen and ensuring better returns on their agricultural products.
Meanwhile, the next major market day would be on Friday, July 3, 2026, beginning at 7 a.m.
