A major milestone in agricultural innovation and climate resilience was achieved with the first harvest of greenhouse-grown cucumbers from the Federal University Lokoja (FUL) greenhouse facility, a project of the Kogi ACReSAL in collaboration with the University.
The event, held at FUL’s Faculty of Agriculture, attracted top government officials and stakeholders, underscoring the administration’s commitment to sustainable agricultural development.
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo was represented by the Commissioner for Environment and Ecological Management, Engr. Joseph Oluwasegun, alongside the Commissioner for Water Resources, Engr. Yahaya M.D. Farouk. Others present included Hon. Jubril Abu, Member representing Ajaokuta State Constituency and Chairman of the House Oversight Committee on Environment, and his Lokoja counterpart.
Speaking on behalf of the Governor, Engr. Oluwasegun reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to agricultural and environmental sustainability.
“Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo is deeply proud of the collaboration between the state, through ACReSAL, and the Federal University Lokoja,” he said.
“This greenhouse is a tangible example of our commitment to climate-smart agriculture. We are cultivating a new generation of farmers and equipping them with the tools to ensure food sustainability for Kogi State and Nigeria.”
In her keynote address, Barrister Ladi Jatto (OON), Project Coordinator of the Kogi State ACReSAL, expressed joy and gratitude for the milestone achievement.
“It is with great joy and gratitude that I stand before you today at this landmark occasion—the official harvesting of our greenhouse-grown cucumber,” she said. “This moment is more than just the culmination of a planting cycle; it is a testament to what collaboration, innovation, and vision can achieve.”
She emphasised the transformative potential of the project, adding, “When we embarked on this journey months ago, we saw beyond the seeds and soil. We envisioned a future where sustainable agriculture thrives within academic institutions—where students learn not just from textbooks but from hands-on experience, and where our University becomes a beacon of climate-smart farming in Nigeria.”
She expressed her gratitude to Kogi State Government for the ongoing agricultural revolution where farmers are supported. She further appreciated the World Bank (lenders) and the ACReSAL National office for their continuous support and guidance.
Professor Olayemi Akinwumi, Vice-Chancellor, Federal University Lokoja, detailed ACReSAL’s comprehensive support while praising the harvest as a symbol of institutional and communal progress.
“Today’s harvest symbolizes growth, resilience, and productivity,” Professor Akinwumi stated. “We are particularly grateful to Kogi State Government through Kogi ACReSAL for their transformative contributions, which include supporting 30 farmers through land preparation of 30 hectares, provision of improved seeds including 300kg of maize and 250kg of sorghum, establishment of a university orchard with over 3,200 seedlings, donation of 9,000 seedlings for campus beautification, and the construction of this greenhouse facility with irrigation. This represents not only the fruits of the soil but also the fruits of dedication and a shared vision.”
The Vice-Chancellor emphasized that the initiative has created “a golden opportunity for our students to engage in all-year-round vegetable production, providing practical, hands-on experience that bridges the gap between theory and practice. It aligns perfectly with our University’s mission of promoting entrepreneurship, innovation, and sustainable livelihoods.”
Hon. Jubril Abu, in his dual role as Ajaokuta Constituency Representative and Chairman of the House Oversight Committee on Environment, commended the Project as a model of strategic partnership.
He emphasised the Project’s technical excellence and environmental benefits, pledging continued legislative support for the expansion of such climate-resilient initiatives.
The event concluded with an invitation from Barr. Jatto for attendees to tour the greenhouse, interact with student farmers, and savor the fresh produce—a fitting celebration of a promising new chapter in agricultural education and sustainable production in Nigeria.