…Information conveyed by the Head, Public Relations Unit, FCAIB
By Wuraola Oyedokun
The Organic Unit of the Federal College of Agriculture, Ibadan (FCAIB), recently hosted a distinguished delegation from the Eko Boys’ High School Old Boys’ Association, led by its President, Dr. Femi Olokodana, alongside Prof. Babatunde Akinsanya (Vice President), Mr. Wole Ogunnanwo (Secretary), and other notable members of the association.
The delegation was warmly received by Dr. Ayanfeoluwa Olufemi, Head of the Organic Farm and Department, who conducted the visitors around the facilities.
Dr. Ayanfeoluwa began the visit with a brief historical overview of the College, describing its legacy as the first agricultural college in West Africa and emphasising its commitment to advancing modern, sustainable agricultural practices.
The visitors were subsequently taken on a guided tour of the Organic Farm Unit, where they observed a wide range of thriving organic produce, including leafy green vegetables and root crops fruit-bearing plants, mango ginger, known for its distinct flavour and nutritional value, cucumbers, a popular vegetable with refreshing qualities, and tomatoes, ripe and suitable for diverse culinary uses.
During the tour, Dr. Ayanfeoluwa shared insights on sustainable farming techniques, such as strategic crop rotation to enhance soil fertility and natural pest control using Dogoyaro (Neem) leaves. She also demonstrated home gardening methods, showing how crops can be cultivated indoors within residential settings.
The group later visited the Screen House, where they learned about its vital role in controlling environmental conditions for optimal crop growth, managing pests effectively, and minimizing pesticide use.
Responding to numerous questions from the visitors, Dr. Ayanfeoluwa provided detailed explanations that further deepened their understanding of organic agricultural systems.
In his appreciation remarks, Dr. Femi Olokodana expressed gratitude to the College for hosting the association, commending FCAIB’s dedication to agricultural innovation and its vital contributions to Nigeria’s food security. He noted that the visit had broadened their knowledge of organic farming and inspired renewed interest in sustainable agricultural practices.