The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security has revealed that the establishment of the Agribusiness Incubation Centre at the Federal University Lokoja (FUL) aims to function as a knowledge hub where practical skills, processes, and agricultural inputs can be acquired for a range of agricultural value chains.
Dr. Ernest Umakhihe, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, made this announcement during the inauguration of the Agribusiness Incubation Centre at FUL, marking the conclusion of the institution’s 6th and 7th convocation ceremonies that commenced on Monday.
He emphasized that the federal government is committed to creating a conducive environment for farmers, entrepreneurs, and investors to enhance the entire agricultural value chain.
“The Agribusiness Incubation Centre was established as a Special Centre of Excellence with the objectives of promoting food security, youth and women’s empowerment, employment generation, wealth creation, and poverty reduction through agribusiness development.
“The centre aims to enhance production capacity, value addition, quality control, and standards while opening access to local and international markets for agricultural products”, he said.
The permanent secretary expressed hope that the Agribusiness Incubation Centre would promote the growth of agribusiness, trade, and investment, not only in Kogi State but across Nigeria.
He therefore” encouraged the university management to advocate, promote awareness, and sensitize youth, women, and other beneficiaries within and beyond the university’s catchment area to take advantage of the project”.
The Vice chancellor of FUL, Professor Olayemi Akinwumi, commended the federal government for the gesture, stressing that the institution will make maximum use of the centre to promote research and other agricultural activities to the benefit of all.
