DELSU: Faculty Of Agriculture Hosts 2nd International Conference On Food Crisis

By Akpobomeh Oghenerukevwe, Surveyor Nneka

The conference that held at the 750A Lecture Theater, Site 3, brought together renowned scholars, policymakers, farmers, and students from across the globe to address the pressing challenges of food insecurity.

Dignitaries and High-Profile Participants
The event was graced by several distinguished personalities, including the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Samuel O. Asagba, represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof. (Mrs.) R. N. Okoh, a pioneering member of the Faculty of Agriculture.

The university’s Registrar, Mrs. Rufina Ufiofio, University Librarian, Dr. (Mrs.) Josephine Onohwakpor, Public Relations Officer (P.R.O), Mr. Henry Eseka, a representative of the Honourable Commissioner of Agriculture, Hon. Ada Val Arenyeka JP, the Honourable Commissioner for Higher Education, Prof. Nyerhowo Tonukari, represented by Mrs. Stella Maidoh, Director of the Remedial Department and the Dean of Postgraduate School, Prof. Sunny Awhefeada.

The conference also saw the participation of students from DELSU Secondary School, Great Beginning Academy and Champions Preparatory Schools, Benbo, Abraka, highlighting the need to involve young minds in discussions on food security and agricultural sustainability.

Opening Ceremony and Book Unveiling
The conference officially commenced on March 3, 2025, with the arrival, registration, and interaction of participants.

The University’s Public Relations Officer, Mr. Henry Eseka, anchored the ceremony, setting the tone for an engaging event.

In her welcome speech, the Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, Prof. (Mrs.) Dicta Ogisi, emphasized the urgency of addressing food insecurity and the need for innovative solutions.

The Vice-Chancellor’s address, delivered by Prof. (Mrs.) R. N. Okoh, reinforced the university’s commitment to advancing agricultural research and innovation.

A major highlight was the unveiling of a book related to food security, reviewed by Prof. P. C. Ikeh.

The book was unveiled by the Vice-Chancellor’s representative, alongside university executives and stakeholders, in recognition of its contribution to agricultural research and food security discourse.

Recognition of Past Deans
As part of the conference, special recognition was given to past deans of the Faculty of Agriculture for their sterling support, dedication, and continuous availability to the faculty and its leadership.

The awardees included Prof. P. G. Eruotor (Dean, March 1995 – January 1997), Prof. Job Orienru Akpodiete (Dean, March 2013 – February 2015) and Prof. Lawrence Bratte (Dean, March 2017 – April 2021).

These distinguished scholars were honored for their invaluable contributions to the growth and development of the faculty, as well as their mentorship and academic leadership.

Keynote Speakers and Farmer-Expert Engagement
The conference featured renowned speakers, including Prof. Christopher Eze, President of the Agricultural Economics Association of Nigeria, who delivered a compelling keynote address on the global food crisis and its impact on Nigeria’s economy.

Others are Prof. Steve Wiggins (Overseas Development Institute, London, UK), Prof. Olumuyiwa James Jayeoba (President, Association of Deans of Agriculture in Nigerian Universities, Nasarawa State University, Lafia), Prof. (Mrs.) Goodness C. Aye (Department of Agricultural Economics, JosTUM & University of Pretoria, South Africa)and Prof. Grace Wamue Ngare (Faculty of Agriculture, Kenyatta University, Nairobi, Kenya).

A key aspect of the conference was an interactive session between farmers and agricultural experts, moderated by Dr. O. Okpara.

Farmers from Ukwuani and Ethiope East Local Government Areas shared firsthand challenges, including Farmer-Herder Conflicts, Inadequate Access to Mechanized Farming Equipment, Limited Access to Government Agricultural Incentives
Experts, including Prof. Bratte, provided practical solutions, encouraging farmers to explore mechanized alternatives, improved seed varieties, and mixed farming systems.

Notably, Dr. Okpara recommended partnerships with Umudike Seeds, a company specializing in high-yielding root and tuber crops.

Academic Presentations and Global Perspectives
Scholars and researchers from South Africa, the UK, Kenya, and Nigeria presented groundbreaking research on food security, sustainable agriculture, and technological innovations.

One of the lead speakers, Prof. Grace Wamue Ngare, joined the conference virtually to discuss Food Crisis: A Wake-Up Call for Sustainable Solutions.

The conference also emphasized the role of youths in agriculture, with students from Delsu Secondary School and Great Beginning Academy actively engaging in discussions.

Their participation underscored the importance of early agricultural education and mentorship programs to inspire the next generation of agricultural scientists and policymakers.

The 2nd International Conference of the Faculty of Agriculture, Delta State University, was a resounding success, fostering critical discussions on policy reforms, technological advancements, and farmer-led innovations to combat the global food crisis.

The event concluded with a call for greater collaboration between researchers, policymakers, and farmers to ensure a food-secure future for Nigeria and beyond.