COOU Partners With LIFEWS ,Oregon State University For Nigeria’s First Agrivoltaics Conference

The Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU) in Igbariam Anambra State, has announced a groundbreaking partnership with the LIFEWS Foundation in collaboration with Oregon State University, USA, to organize Nigeria’s first Agrivoltaics Conference.

The event is set to take place at the ASUU Secretariat Complex, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, on March 26–27, 2025.

 

The initiative was unveiled during a visit by a delegation from the LIFEWS Foundation to the COOU, led by Dr. Kingsley Ikechukwu Agụ, the Agrivoltaics Program Coordinator in Nigeria.

 

Dr. Agụ highlighted the objectives of the conference, stressing its importance in driving research, implementation, and sustainable development in agrivoltaics, with a focus on climate-smart agriculture and renewable energy solutions.

 

“This collaboration comes at a crucial time when there is a growing need to revolutionize agriculture by adopting innovative and sustainable approaches. The conference aims to raise awareness, engage stakeholders, and promote the integration of agrivoltaic systems as a solution for enhancing food and energy security in Africa.

“The driving force behind this initiative is Gabriel S. Ayayia, the Founder of LIFEWS Foundation, in partnership with Dr. Chad Higgins of Oregon State University. Their goal is to foster innovation, empower entrepreneurs, and leverage technological advancements to support sustainable food production in Nigeria.”

COOU’s Ag. Vice Chancellor, Prof. Kate Omenugha, warmly welcomed the delegation and expressed the university’s readiness to collaborate with the LIFEWS Foundation in advancing research on agrivoltaics. She emphasized the importance of practical application in academic and scientific pursuits and pledged full support for the success of the conference.

 

The management team of COOU, including key figures such as Prof. Osita Chiaghanam, Prof. M. O. Ananti, Sir. Chris Obi, Dr. Nath Udezo, and Dr. Uche Enweani, reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the conference.

Additionally, key personnel from the Faculty of Agriculture and COOU Fish Farm, such as Prof. C. Ugwumba, Dr. C.O. Nwokoye, and Rev. Sr. Regina Chukwudozie, were also present during the meeting.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Oyenike Oyeniyi