Netherlands Diplomat Visits FUNAAB to Boost Agricultural Ties

Ambassador Michel Deelen, the Consul General (CG) of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Lagos, visited the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), to boost agricultural ties.

The event, held at the Red Chamber of the University on July 11, 2024, aimed to strengthen bonds for sustainable agriculture, friendship and collaborative efforts between Nigeria and the Netherlands.

During the visit, Ambassador Deelen delivered a
Public Lecture, titled “Sustainable Food Security,” and he emphasised the importance of Nigeria meeting international standards for its agricultural exports.

He commended FUNAAB for its recent recognition as the Best University of Agriculture in Africa and the 7th Best globally, highlighting the University’s role in promoting food security and agricultural excellence.

The CG stressed the need for government support in agriculture, advocating for mechanised farming and irrigation to prevent food scarcity.

He also underscored the critical role of technology in modern farming and encouraged farmers to persist, despite climate challenges.

The high-ranking Diplomat commended Nigeria’s efforts in climate-smart agriculture, noting the necessity of mechanisation for enhancing productivity.

Ambassador Deelen expressed a desire for increased mechanisation in Nigeria’s agriculture, offering Dutch expertise and support, and mentioning entities like the Netherlands’ Development Bank.

He also proposed a seed partnership to improve access to high-quality seeds for Nigerian farmers.

According to him, he stressed the need for Nigeria to embrace mechanisation and a green revolution to professionalise farming and generate employment.

Highlighting the efficiency of Dutch agricultural practices, such as producing 10 kilos of tomatoes with just 4 litres of water, Ambassador Deelen emphasised the importance of irrigation and water management.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, earlier in his address, welcomed Ambassador Deelen, affirming the importance of international collaboration in education and beyond.

He appreciated the support of the Netherlands, highlighting FUNAAB’s dedication to fostering international partnerships, including a commitment to academic excellence and innovation.

Prof. Kehinde expressed gratitude for the enduring Nigeria-Netherlands relationship, appreciating Dutch expertise in agriculture, particularly in horticulture and dairy farming.

The Vice-Chancellor noted FUNAAB’s achievements, including the accreditation of its Centre of Excellence in Agricultural Development and Sustainable Environment (CEADESE) by the German International Agency for Quality Assurance, and recent developments like the FUNAAB Alpha chicken breed and a 7-billion-liter capacity dam for research and irrigation.

He also mentioned the nearing completion of a 3MW solar project, underscoring the University’s commitment to sustainable energy and environmental stewardship.

According to him, he expressed hope that Ambassador Deelen’s visit would strengthen the bonds of friendship and collaboration between Nigeria and the Netherlands.

In his slide presentation, titled “FUNAAB in Brief,” the Director, CEADESE, Prof. Adeboye Fafiolu, presented an overview of FUNAAB’s history, facilities, and accomplishments, stressing the University’s commitment to research, technology transfer, and capacity building in addressing Nigeria’s agricultural challenges.

A highlight of the visit was a meeting with Oluwalonimi Jacobs, also known as Nimi the Farmer, who shared her experiences and training with Horti Nigeria.

She discussed challenges and innovations in her agricultural practices, such as growing crops without water.

Meanwhile, the visit included a tour of the University farms, CEADESE, FUNAAB Zoo Park, FUNAAB Alpha Chicken project, and the Alumni Farm at the FUNAAB/Ogun-Osun boundary, including showcasing some key facilities like the 3-megawatt solar project.

Overall, the visit was a success, with both parties committed to strengthening their relationship and exploring potential collaborations in agriculture, science, and engineering.