The Faculty of Agriculture, University of Calabar, held its maiden International Conference on December 5, 2024, at the University of Calabar ASUU Secretariat. With the theme "Food Security Through Innovation: Bridging Technology with Traditional Farming," the event brought together experts, policymakers, students, and stakeholders to address the pressing challenges of food security.
In her welcome address, Prof. Susana Ohem, Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, described the conference as a historic moment, uniting minds from diverse fields to advance agriculture as a cornerstone for food security, economic growth, and sustainable development.
“As the global population grows and climate conditions evolve, the urgency to innovate while respecting the wisdom of traditional agricultural practices has never been greater,” Prof. Ohem stated.
She emphasized that the conference serves as a platform to confront these challenges, fostering collaboration and leveraging expertise to secure a sustainable agricultural future.
Prof. Ohem revealed that 68 papers were submitted for the conference, with Dr. Aliyu Samalia serving as the lead presenter.
Notably, four undergraduate students were sponsored to present papers, showcasing the faculty's commitment to nurturing young talent.
She concluded by stating the faculty's plan to use the conference to build capacity among younger lecturers and students, equipping them with the skills to excel in academic and practical agricultural endeavours.
Delivering the keynote address, Hon. Johnson Ebokpo, Commissioner for Agriculture and Irrigation Development, underscored the critical importance of food security.
“Food is a fundamental human need, yet ensuring access to safe, nutritious, and sufficient food remains one of the greatest challenges of our time,” he remarked.
He identified key obstacles, including a growing global population, climate change, limited natural resources, and food waste.
Hon. Ebokpo acknowledged the enduring value of traditional farming practices but stressed the need to integrate innovation.
“The theme of this conference reminds us that no single approach can solve food security. Combining innovation with traditional farming practices offers solutions that not only feed the growing population but also secure the planet for future generations,” he noted.
He also stated Cross River State's contributions to agriculture, citing initiatives like Project Grow, a special-purpose vehicle supporting private-sector-led agribusiness development. These efforts, he said, reflect the state government's commitment under Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu’s leadership to create a conducive environment for agricultural innovation.
In an interview with journalists Dr. Aliyu Samalia, lead presenter and agribusiness expert with over 30 years of experience, emphasized the role of stakeholders in addressing Nigeria's rapidly growing population, projected to double within 33 years.
“We must not only grow more food but also grow it more efficiently. This requires embracing appropriate technologies that bridge local and modern agricultural practices,” he said.
Dr. Samalia also encouraged students to be proud of their profession, noting agriculture's bright future and vast opportunities for those willing to innovate and adapt.
The conference's opening ceremony featured the presentation of awards to students with outstanding CGPAs, the Commissioner, and the lead presenter. A photo session followed, adding a celebratory note to the event.
The three-day conference promises to deliver actionable insights, build capacity, and lay the groundwork for a sustainable agricultural future that bridges tradition and technology.
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