Food Security: Kwara State Polytechnic harvests N13m worth of cassava

As part of efforts to cushion the effects of hunger, an institution in Kwara State, North Central Nigeria, Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin has harvested twenty five tonnes of maize from the institution’s commercial farm.

The cost of the market price of the harvest is put at thirteen million Naira. (N13m).

The volume of the harvest also amounted to about ten percent of such produce that entired one of the grain markets in the state capital.

Speaking with newsmen at the site of the farm, the Rector of the state owned institute, Dr Abdul-Jimoh Muhammed disclosed that the farm activities were carried out by the Department of Agricultural Technology, Department of Agric Engineering and Bio Environmental.

According to him, the management of the Polytechnic , successfully harvested in its commercial farm produce, marking a significant milestone in its efforts to support the state government’s food security initiatives.

The harvesting exercise, which took place at the polytechnic’s commercial farm, was a collaborative effort aimed at making agricultural produce available at affordable prices.

The Rector disclosed that the farm, which was previously vacant and prone to encroachment, has been transformed into a productive land, yielding maize, cassava, and soon, soya beans.

He explained further that the polytechnic had been battling with encroachment but was able to reduce it through the support of the ministry of tertiary education.

Mohammed announced plans to cultivate an additional 20 hectares of land next farming season and invited interested farmers to lease land on an annual basis.

According to him, the successful harvesting exercise is a testament to the polytechnic’s commitment to supporting the state government’s efforts to improve food security and make agricultural produce available at affordable prices.

The state Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Dr. Mrs Mary Arinde who was represented by a Director in the Ministry, Hajia Rhodia Yahaya commended the management and staff of the polytechnic for their foresight and hard work.

She noted that the initiative would not only provide food for the community but also serve as a model for other institutions to follow.

The Chairperson of the Farm committee who is also a Director of the Institute of Technology, Engr Mrs. Ruth Modupe, commended the Rector and institution for their support in overcoming the challenges faced by her 12-people Farming Committee stating they have realized 25 metric tons of Maize and targeting 180 metric tons of Cassava.