The Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) has concluded a strategic collaboration with the German government on strategies to improve food security through a sustainable agricultural practice in Nigeria.

The partnership, which is hinged on three major areas, specifically sought to improve agricultural technology, making agriculture a business and particularly fostering rural development by improving the energy infrastructure.

In a statement issued yesterday in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, the acting head of FUNAAB’s Directorate of public relations, ‘Sunkanmi Olajide, said the German consul-general to Nigeria, Mr. Weert Borner, visited the university during the past week as part of the efforts to ensuring that the collaboration achieved the desired results.

Olajide  said the FUNAAB-German collaboration is aimed at discussing agricultural-related issues, particularly the significance of enhancing fertiliser production with renewable energy sources, foreseeing substantial advancements in agricultural output through innovative approaches, as well as to ensure that Nigeria achieves economic stability.

Olajide said Borner also advocated for a global alliance on food security with emphasis on the need for an urgent action.

Pointing out that the German government and the United Nations have provided aid in food supplies, Borner emphasised that it was imperative to seek sustainable solutions for long-term development and prosperity.

The FUNAAB’s spokesperson further disclosed that Borner, who visited the university alongside his wife, Dr. Imke Borner, delivered a public lecture themed: “Nigeria-German Cooperation: Improving Food Security Through Sustainable Agriculture” wherein he observed the several inherent benefits from cassava, adding that a possible area of partnership was how to improve the productivity on cassava.

Besides, he also noted the ongoing partnerships aimed at establishing trade fairs focused on agro-food, slated to commence on March 26.

Earlier, the vice chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, expressed gratitude to  Borner and his wife for their visit, saying that it symbolized the enduring partnership between Germany and FUNAAB.

Source: Leadership