The Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) has strengthened its agricultural drive with the acquisition of state-of-the-art farm equipment for its Directorate of University Farms (DUFARMS). This initiative aims to enhance productivity and modernise agricultural practices at the institution.

At an official handover ceremony on December 13, 2024, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, presented the newly procured equipment to the Acting Director of DUFARMS, Dr. Emmanuel Bankole. Prof. Kehinde described the acquisition as a landmark development for DUFARMS, highlighting its importance in improving efficiency and sustaining the University’s agricultural leadership.

Commending DUFARMS’ achievements in cultivating crops such as maize, yams, cassava, and vegetables, Prof. Kehinde applauded Dr. Bankole’s leadership, particularly in boosting the production of soya beans and groundnuts. He urged the Directorate to maximise the potential of the advanced equipment to expand operations, improve efficiency, and contribute to FUNAAB’s agricultural revitalisation agenda.

Expressing gratitude, Dr. Bankole assured that the equipment would be put to optimal use to increase productivity, generate additional Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), and benefit the University community and its surroundings.

The newly acquired equipment includes a Multi-Purpose Crops Thresher, a 3,000L Galvanised Water Bowser, a 15-ton Tipping Trailer, and a Hand Push Motorised Garden Sprayer. Other tools are a Grains and Cereals Cleaning Machine, a Two-Row Vertical Cassava Planter, a 1.3HP Palm Cutter, a 7.1HP MH 710 Tiller, and a 1.3HP HT 75 Pruner. Each piece of equipment is designed to improve efficiency and precision in DUFARMS’ operations.

This acquisition aligns with FUNAAB’s commitment to advancing agricultural practices through innovation and technology. It reaffirms the institution’s dedication to food security, economic development, and maintaining its leadership in agricultural education and research.