A market survey estimated the value of the recent maize harvest at the Kwara State Polytechnic farm to be N30 million, with a total yield of 25 tonnes.
This harvest represents approximately 10% of the maize produce that is brought daily to one of Ilorin’s major grain markets at Ago.
Dr. Abdul-Jimoh Mohammed, the Rector of the institution, shared how they successfully transformed a land encroachment challenge into a fruitful opportunity.
Furthermore, it is projected that the cassava crop at the farm will yield approximately 180 tonnes upon harvest later in the year.
“Today marks the culmination of our initial harvest, and we felt it was important to share this milestone.
“Our response to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s challenge to maximize the institution’s potential is evident in this significant achievement, and we are committed to its continuity,” he remarked.
During the recent farm yield harvest event, Mohammed emphasized, “Through management efforts and the valuable support from the Ministry of Tertiary Institutions, we have successfully minimized land encroachment by promoting agricultural initiatives.”
“Our venture into commercial farming began with a strategic approach to utilize vacant lands, combat encroachment, and ensure food accessibility and affordability for the polytechnic community and the people of Kwara.
“Initially cultivating 20 hectares, the farm eventually expanded from clearing 10 hectares to an additional 10 hectares planted with cassava and maize; soybeans are planned for planting towards the end of the rainy season.
“Looking ahead to the next rainy season, there are intentions to cultivate another 20 hectares, alongside exploring the possibility of leasing farming spaces to interested individuals.
“Although the logistics are still being fine-tuned, the management intends to present the agreed-upon arrangements to the governor, who has been supportive of our agricultural endeavors through the supervising ministry.”