Continuing the vibrant celebration of its 61st Anniversary Founder's Day and Convocation, the Federal College of Animal Health and Production Technology (FCAH&PT) in Moor Plantation, Ibadan, held its Pre-Convocation lecture on Thursday, April 3rd. This year's theme, "Bridging Past & Future: Advancing Animal Production and Health through Science, Technology, and Policy in Nigeria," emphasizes the college's dedication to advancing agricultural practices and research.
The day's events took place at Dr. K.J. Nwufoh Hall, following a spirited Road Show and Awareness Campaign that commenced the anniversary celebrations on April 2nd, where students and staff actively engaged the community with messages promoting responsible antibiotic use.
Day 2 brought together a host of dignitaries, including Engr. Seyi Makinde, the Executive Governor of Oyo State, represented by Hon. Kehinde Akande, the Executive Chairman of Ibadan South-West Local Government; Alh. Idi Mukhtar Maiha, the Hon. Minister of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development and Food Security, represented by Mrs. Olayinka Akeredolu, the Zonal Director, South-West Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security; and Prof. Garba Hamidu Sharubutu, the Executive Secretary of the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria, represented by Prof. Atanda Muhammed Lawal, the Executive Director of NIHORT.
The keynote address was delivered by Prof. Samuel Soladoye Abiola, an esteemed scholar and alumnus of the college. He was joined by fellow speakers, including Dr. Adekoya Olatunde Owosibo, the Provost of FCAH&PT and host of the event; Dr. Omolara Jemimah Ojezele, Chair of the Local Organizing Committee; Dr. Ayoola Oduntan, Group Managing Director of Amo Farms; Dr. Ibrahim Abdulganiyu, Provost of the Federal Cooperative College, Eleyele, represented by Dr. (Mrs.) Victoria Ademilua; Prof. Veronica Obatolu, Director of the Institute of Agricultural Research and Training (IAR&T), represented by Prof. Oluwatosin; and Mr. W.O. Lumpkin, President of the Alumni Association, alongside principal officers, deans, sub-deans, heads of departments, academic staff, management staff, students, alumni, and stakeholders in agricultural rural development.
In her remarks, Dr. Omolara Jemimah Ojezele reflected on the significance of the day, stating, “Today stands as a historical moment in our institution's journey, defined by academic excellence, groundbreaking research, and a commitment to national development. This year's theme reflects our continuous effort to honor our rich legacy while embracing innovations that will shape the future of the agricultural and animal health sectors.”
Dr. Ayoola Oduntan emphasized the college's crucial role in the agricultural landscape of Oyo State: “This college is one of the reasons why Oyo State is regarded as a leader in poultry production in Nigeria. It is critical that we continue to produce high-quality graduates ready to tackle the challenges of our time.”
Mrs. Olayinka Akeredolu, representing the Hon. Minister of Livestock Development and Food Security, echoed the call for embracing innovative agricultural practices. She stated, “It is essential that we integrate modern technology and evidence-based policies to enhance productivity and food security in Nigeria.”
Dr. Adekoya Olatunde Owosibo, the Provost of FCAH&PT, expressed his gratitude to the college's retirees and the achievements made thus far. “We count it all joy to honor our retirees today,” he said. “Their contributions have been instrumental in our progress. As we celebrate our past, we must also commit to shaping a future defined by innovation and sustainable practices.”
Prof. Garba Hamidu Sharubutu, represented by Prof. Muhammed Lawal Atanda, congratulated the college on its milestones and stressed the need for students to explore opportunities outside conventional job markets. “Agriculture offers numerous avenues for success, and we must encourage innovation among the youth,” he urged.
Hon. Kehinde Akande, representing the Executive Governor of Oyo State, articulated the government’s ongoing commitment to enhancing agricultural productivity. “We have empowered over 3,000 youths in animal husbandry, and we encourage students to explore lucrative opportunities in this sector,” he said.
In his keynote address, Prof. Samuel Soladoye Abiola reflected on the remarkable journey of the institution and the vital role it plays in shaping the agricultural landscape of the nation. He emphasized the evolution of the college since its inception in 1964, initially known as the Animal Health School. “A lot has changed from then until now,” he remarked, underscoring the growing need for the college to produce graduates who are not only job seekers but also innovators and creators within the agricultural sector. He challenged the institution to maintain its forward momentum, stating, “This is the time to save the livestock sector from total collapse. Nigeria is blessed with vast human resources, and the problems we face—such as cattle rustling, high input costs, and inadequate veterinary services—can be addressed through strategic collaboration and government support.”
He highlighted the urgent need for advancing animal production, noting that with Nigeria’s population explosion, there is a rising demand for protein sources such as milk, eggs, and meat. “We need to harness our agricultural potential to meet these demands,” he urged, outlining several strategies for improvement: increased investment in research and development, genetic potential enhancement, nutritional strategies, effective disease management, and the adoption of reproductive technologies.
In an exclusive interview with CEOAFRICA, the chairman of the occasion, Dr. Ayoola Oduntan, reiterated the college's critical role in agricultural education. “This college is one of the reasons why Oyo State is regarded as a leader in poultry production in Nigeria," he stated. "We must continue to produce high-quality graduates who will address the challenges we face in agriculture. Hunger is rampant in the land, and with our resources, we can turn the face of malnutrition around. Agriculture belongs to the youth; it's the most critical factor in Nigeria's growth and development. I urge all interested in agriculture to seize this opportunity.”
Prof. Muhammed Lawal Atanda, Executive Director of NIHORT, expressed a focused perspective on horticulture, saying, “Many have faced hunger over the years. The Minister of Agriculture has mandated us to produce foundation and breeder seeds, which we will distribute to farmers. If we plant the right seeds, we will yield abundant products. The government should empower smallholder farmers, ensuring they have access to mechanization and training.”
Mrs. Olayinka Akeredolu, representing the Hon. Minister of Livestock Development and Food Security, acknowledged the efforts of FCAH&PT, stating, “This college has produced thousands of graduates who are specialists in animal husbandry and are running various livestock sectors in Nigeria. We all play a role in ensuring food security in our country, starting from micro-level production at home."
The Provost, Dr. Adekoya Olatunde Owosibo, highlighted ongoing and future projects: “I feel elated by the progress we have made in infrastructure and staff development. We organized the road show to improve our visibility and positively impact the community. We have many ongoing projects, and I am optimistic that we will complete them. The future of our agriculture lies in empowering our graduates to thrive in the sector.”
The Registrar of the college, Mr. Nathaniel Jolaiya, added, “Witnessing this occasion fills me with pride. As I prepare to leave the service in May, I see the progress made here. We are training our students to become self-sufficient through our entrepreneurship center, which offers vocational training to prepare them for diverse opportunities.”
Following these impactful speeches, the ceremony proceeded with the Conferment of Awards, honoring deserving staff, retirees, and alumni for their remarkable contributions. The Unveiling of the College Compendium, along with fundraising activities, was followed by the Inter-Union Sports Competition Awards, recognizing outstanding achievements in athletics. The day culminated in the Commissioning of the New Central Security and Monitoring Office, further demonstrating the college's commitment to enhancing its infrastructure.
As the celebrations continued, attendees reflected on the rich legacy of FCAH&PT and the promising future of animal health and production in Nigeria. In conclusion, the day highlighted the collective responsibility to tackle the challenges of food security and agricultural development in Nigeria. As volunteers and stakeholders unite, a shared vision emerges, emphasizing the power of youth and innovation in transforming the agricultural landscape for generations to come.
