The Vice Chancellor of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Prof Maduebibisi Ofo Iwe is committed to ensuring that the Agribusiness Incubation Centre in the institution is used to enhance food production in Abia and neighbouring states.
The Director of the Centre, Dr Philips Nto disclosed this yesterday while conducting newsmen around facilities in the centre.
He noted that although President Bola Ahmed Tinubu approved the establishment of the centre to teach and encourage local farmers on modern techniques of farming, Prof Iwe’s passion for excellence has made the difference.
According to Dr Philips Nto, the vice-chancellor has taken a personal interest in the development and growth of the centre, thus making it one of the fastest growing enterprise in the university.
” We have a VC who is passionate about what we do here, such that we have all that we need to excel. We have his 100 percent support for our activities ‘, the director said.
He disclosed that since its establishment a few months ago, the Agribusiness Incubation Centre has reached out to high-profile individuals and corporate organisations who require its services.
He noted that top government officials in Abia State have also visited the centre to seek working relationships that would enhance food production in the state.
Dr Philips Nto announced that training of people in the modern technologies of farming will help ensure that states around the University do not suffer food insecurity.
He said the staff of the centre were seasoned professionals in the areas of agriculture, Agribusiness and ancillary support services.
He expressed appreciation to the Vice Chancellor, Prof Iwe for his sustained encouragement, which has assisted the centre to carry out its core mandate.
He was confident that Nigeria would soon overcome its challenges of food insecurity if youths are trained and empowered to participate in agriculture and agribusiness.