By Abdullahi Lukman
Prof. Christopher Eze, Vice Chancellor of the University of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences (UAES), Umuagwo, has called for the widespread adoption of agroecology to enhance food production and ensure national food security.
He made the call during a one-day workshop on the MSc Agroecology and Food Systems programme at the university campus near Owerri.
Eze highlighted that Nigeria and West Africa face significant agricultural challenges, including soil fertility decline, nutrient deficiencies, pest infestations, and irrigation issues.
He said agroecological practices—such as improved manure management and use of mulch forage legumes—can address these problems by improving soil health and resilience sustainably.
The MSc programme aims to equip agricultural stakeholders with advanced knowledge and skills in agroecology and modern farming techniques to boost crop yields and promote environmental sustainability.
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The university, established in 2020, has secured international collaborations and funding, including two European Union-backed projects: the Digital Solution to Agriculture (DIGISOL) and Agrecofarm, which supports capacity building across West African universities.
Prof. Emmanuel Onweremadu of the Federal University of Technology Owerri, delivered a keynote stressing the link between land degradation and food insecurity, calling for urgent soil restoration efforts.
Prof. Rose Nwabueze, involved in the Agrecofarm project, explained the programme’s focus on applied research and sustainable farming systems.
Prof. Anthony Onyekuru presented on career prospects in agroecology, while international coordinator Prof. Pietro Picuno emphasized the programme’s potential to improve agricultural practices in Nigeria and the region.
Dr. Vitus Enwerem, the programme coordinator, urged students and farmers to enroll, noting the importance of sustainable farming amid population growth and environmental concerns.
He also highlighted the programme’s benefits for rural communities and self-employment opportunities.
NAN
