Members of the University of Abuja Farmers Association are demonstrating how farming alongside their regular jobs can contribute to food production and provide additional income.
At a festival marking World Food Day, participants showcased their produce and highlighted how universities could use their land, research and expertise to help address Nigeria’s food challenges.
From farm produce to processed foods, the displays at this festival reflect the agricultural activities of members of the University of Abuja Farmers Association.
The 2026 World Food Day festival, themed “Farm to Plate,” brought together farmers, food processors and entrepreneurs to showcase their products and discuss opportunities across the food value chain.
For participants who combine farming with their regular employment, the event was also an opportunity to demonstrate how more people could contribute to food production.
Beyond the displays, discussions focused on the difficulties facing both producers and consumers.
Households are struggling with food costs, while farmers face expensive inputs, limited access to finance, inadequate storage and transportation challenges.
Experts at the event said universities could help address some of these problems by putting their land, research capacity and expertise to greater use.
They identified opportunities for crop cultivation, demonstration farms, food processing and practical agricultural training.
Such initiatives could also give students opportunities to develop skills and establish businesses in production, processing, storage and distribution.
Participants said stronger links between university research and farming could help producers improve their methods, reduce losses and reach markets.
For the association, the festival’s message extends beyond the food on display: universities have a role in supporting food production and preparing more young people to earn a living from agriculture.
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Editor: Ada Ononye
