By Olasunkanmi Olajide & Lydia Adebayo

The Vice-Chancellor, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), Prof. Babatunde Kehinde today, August 22, 2024, visited the expansive 9-hectare maize farm in partnership with NOLAP Farms, where he observed the ongoing massive harvest of Maize and engaged with both Farm Managers and market women involved in the process.

Speaking during the sales at the Farm, the Vice-Chancellor expressed his satisfaction with the Farm’s progress, commending the enthusiasm of the market women.

He highlighted the successful collaboration between FUNAAB and NOLAP, a venture led by one of FUNAAB’s distinguished alumni, which has played a significant role in the Farm’s achievements.

Speaking further, the Vice-Chancellor emphasised the vital role of partnerships in addressing resource constraints and encouraged potential collaborators to join hands with FUNAAB.

He assured that the University maintains a high standard of integrity and mutual trust in all its operations.

Additionally, he revealed that the Farm’s activities were not limited to maize, with plans underway to cultivate other crops, engage in cattle ranching, and have turkeys ready for sale by December.

The Vice-Chancellor also toured the poultry section of the Farm, where they were brooding turkeys and broilers which were expected to reach maturity for sale in about four months.

Earlier the Farm Manager, Mr. Femi Oladele had shared insights into the harvesting operations, revealing that approximately 116 market women actively participated in the maize harvest.

According to him, under a pre-arranged agreement, the women enter the farm to pick the maize themselves, selling seven cobs for ₦500. The sales continue tomorrow, he stated.