Enhancing food security: Egbewole seeks more investment in broiler production

The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole (SAN), has emphasised the need for strategic investments in broiler production to enhance food security and economic sustainability in both our immediate environment and Nigeria at large.

Prof. Egbewole stated this last Tuesday (March 11, 2025) at the inaugural Town and Gown Interaction and Workshop on Value Chain Addition in Broiler Production, organised by the Faculty of Agriculture. The event attracted participants from the academia, industry, and government agencies.

Represented at the event by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Management Services), Prof. Adegboyega Adisa Fawole, the Vice Chancellor emphasised the importance of the poultry industry in ensuring food security, creating employment, and boosting the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

He said that the workshop aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 2, which aims to end hunger, achieve food security, and promote sustainable agriculture.

According to the Vice Chancellor, Nigeria’s vast potential in broiler production remains underutilised, and initiatives like this workshop will empower stakeholders to maximise opportunities in the poultry value chain.

Prof. Egbewole said, “The role of agriculture in national development cannot be overemphasised. The University of Ilorin is committed to bridging the gap between research and practice.

In her welcome address, the Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, Prof. Oluyemisi Fawole, expressed appreciation to the Vice-Chancellor, his team, and other distinguished guests for gracing the occasion. She highlighted the importance of the workshop in reshaping broiler production in Nigeria, stressing that value chain addition will create more job opportunities, increase profitability for farmers, and enhance food security.

The Dean urged farmers, investors, and policymakers to leverage the knowledge shared at the workshop, emphasising that research-based innovations must be translated into real-world applications for economic growth. She reiterated the Faculty’s dedication to training future agricultural experts who will drive Nigeria’s self-sufficiency in poultry production.

Prof. Fawole also extended special recognition to the 1992 alumni, appreciating their unwavering support for the faculty over the years. She encouraged them to continue their contributions towards infrastructural development and research initiatives, stating that their generosity plays a crucial role in advancing agricultural education at the University of Ilorin

The Chairman of the Town and Gown Workshop, Prof. Adebiisi Oluwatoba Adeyina, in his opening remarks, highlighted the rationale behind the workshop, noting that it was designed to bridge the gap between academic research and industrial practices. He explained that many agricultural graduates and professionals struggle with the practical application of their knowledge, which limits their ability to thrive in the competitive agricultural sector.

The event also featured presentations by three professionals, all alumni of the University. They are Mr. Adebayo Gawatti, Manager of GGMax Production Outfit in Kwara State; Mr. Akin Ojo, former Chairman of the Poultry Association of Nigeria; and Mr. Zatec Farms. They shared their expertise on broiler bird production, highlighting the practical applications of agricultural knowledge. Other presenters included Prof. Job Atteh, a renowned expert in poultry production from the Department of Animal Production at the University of Ilorin.

During the event, the class of 1992 made a modest presentation to the Faculty of Agriculture, reinforcing their commitment to giving back to their alma mater. A cheque for #1 million was presented to the Faculty, demonstrating the dedication of the class to supporting agricultural education and research.

Also in attendance were the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Taibat Bakare-Odunola, and the Registrar, Mr. Mansur Adeleke Alfanla; Prof. A. K. Musa, Chairman, Faculty Advancement Committee in charge of Alumni Affairs, several academic and non-teaching staff, students of the Faculty, and stakeholders from industry and government agencies.