Nigeria faces a formidable challenge in ensuring food security for its rapidly growing population. The University of Calabar’s Faculty of Agriculture recently convened its inaugural International Conference to address this critical issue, bringing together experts, policymakers, and students to explore innovative solutions. The conference, themed “Food Security Through Innovation: Bridging Technology with Traditional Farming,” emphasized the importance of integrating modern agricultural techniques with time-tested traditional practices to achieve sustainable food production. The discussions centered on leveraging technology and innovation to overcome challenges such as climate change, resource limitations, and the increasing demand for food. The conference served as a platform to share research findings, exchange ideas, and foster collaboration among stakeholders in the agricultural sector.
The conference underscored the urgent need for a paradigm shift in agricultural practices to meet the escalating food demands of a burgeoning population. Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, Professor Susana Ohem, emphasized the importance of respecting traditional farming wisdom while simultaneously embracing technological advancements. This dual approach, she argued, is crucial to navigating the complex interplay of population growth, climate change, and resource constraints. Professor Ohem highlighted the conference’s commitment to nurturing young talent by sponsoring four undergraduate students to present their research. This initiative reflects the faculty’s dedication to fostering future generations of agricultural innovators and leaders. The submission of 68 research papers, with Dr. Aliyu Samalia as the lead presenter, showcased the depth and breadth of ongoing research in the field.
Cross River State Commissioner for Agriculture and Irrigation Development, Johnson Ebokpo, delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the pivotal role of food security in national development. He stressed that access to safe, nutritious, and sufficient food is a fundamental human right and a prerequisite for progress. Ebokpo identified population growth, climate change, and resource limitations as significant impediments to achieving food security. He echoed the conference theme, advocating for a synergistic approach that combines innovation with traditional farming practices. This integrated approach, he suggested, offers the best hope for sustainably feeding the growing population while preserving the environment for future generations. He commended the state’s initiatives like Project Grow, which supports private-sector agribusinesses, as a model for promoting agricultural development.
Dr. Aliyu Samalia, the lead presenter, emphasized the urgency of adopting efficient agricultural technologies, especially given Nigeria’s projected population growth. He underscored the need not just to increase food production, but to do so efficiently and sustainably using appropriate technologies that bridge the gap between local and modern practices. Dr. Samalia’s call to action resonated with the conference’s overall message of embracing innovation while remaining grounded in the wisdom of traditional farming. His encouragement to students to view agriculture as a dynamic and rewarding career path highlighted the potential of the sector to attract and retain young talent.
The conference highlighted the importance of collaboration among stakeholders in the agricultural sector. By bringing together experts, policymakers, students, and other key actors, the event fostered a spirit of shared responsibility and collective action. This collaborative approach is crucial for developing and implementing comprehensive strategies to address the complex challenges of food security. The discussions emphasized the need for coordinated efforts to integrate innovative technologies, promote sustainable farming practices, and ensure equitable access to food for all Nigerians.
The University of Calabar’s inaugural International Conference on Food Security served as a crucial platform for dialogue, knowledge sharing, and collaboration in the agricultural sector. The conference’s focus on bridging technology with traditional farming practices provides a roadmap for achieving sustainable food production in Nigeria. By promoting innovation, supporting research, and nurturing young talent, the Faculty of Agriculture is playing a vital role in addressing the nation’s food security challenges and building a more resilient and prosperous agricultural sector. The conference’s success suggests that similar initiatives, focused on collaborative problem-solving and the integration of traditional and modern agricultural practices, can contribute significantly to achieving food security in Nigeria and beyond.
