By Doris Onyekachi
The Faculty of Agriculture, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), has hosted its 4th International Hybrid Agricultural Conference, bringing together scholars, researchers, agricultural experts and policymakers to explore innovative approaches to food security and sustainable agricultural development.
The conference, held on October 28, at the ETF Hall, Igbariam Campus, was themed “Innovative and Climate-Smart Agriculture for Resilient Food Systems and Sustainable Development.”
Speaking at the event, the Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, Prof. H. U. Nwalieji, and the Local Organising Committee Chairman, Dr. Frank C. Okenmuo, emphasised the importance of research, technological innovation and climate-smart agricultural practices in enhancing productivity and building resilient food systems.
Delivering the Vice-Chancellor’s opening remarks, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Uli Campus Affairs, Prof. Sylvia Okonkwo, described agriculture as a critical pillar of family sustenance, national income and economic development. She called for increased commitment to agricultural innovation, highlighting the importance of climate change adaptation, artificial intelligence and modern infrastructure in transforming the sector.
Prof. Okonkwo reaffirmed the University’s commitment, under the leadership of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Kate Azuka Omenugha, to advancing agricultural education, research and innovation for sustainable development.
The conference featured HRM Igwe Dr. Benneth Izuchukwu Emeka, Oke Ebo Umueri, as Chairman and Royal Father of the Day. The keynote address was delivered by Prof. Olugbenga Oluseyi AdeOluwa, while Chief Innocent Chukwuma, presented a lead paper titled “From Factory to Farm: Leveraging Nigerian Manufacturing for Climate-Resilient Agriculture and Rural Prosperity.”
Other lead paper presenters included Dr. Nnaemeka Onyeka Obiaraeri, FICA, MIRA; Ogirinye Innocency Adoga; Prof. Chinee Ifejirika Speranza; and Prof. Mohamed Fathy Salem.
The conference underscored COOU’s commitment to research, interdisciplinary collaboration and practical solutions to agricultural challenges, while aligning with the vice-chancellor’s 3Vs mantra of Values, Viability and Visibility.
Through initiatives such as the conference, the university continues to strengthen its contribution to sustainable development, agricultural transformation and food security in Nigeria and beyond.
Doris Onyekachi is of the Anambra State Ministry of Information and Value Reformation
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