The Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) has commenced the massive sale of freshly harvested yam tubers and other farm produce, with an impressive pyramid of yam signalling a bumper harvest and showcasing the impact of the University’s agricultural research, innovation and production efforts.
The sales, which commenced on Thursday, August 20, 2026, at the DUFARMS AGROMAT, were organised by the Directorate of University Farms (DUFARMS) as part of its continued efforts to translate agricultural research and innovations into practical, marketable products while making quality farm produce available to the University Community and the general public at highly discounted rates.
The towering display of freshly harvested yam tubers provided a striking symbol of the productivity and agricultural potential of the University, reflecting the sustained efforts of DUFARMS in planting, cultivating and harvesting crops using innovative agricultural practices.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Development), Prof. Olawale Dairo, expressed delight at the harvest, describing it as a significant outcome of the University’s research and agricultural development initiatives.
Prof. Kehinde noted that the farm produce represented a major research achievement, particularly considering the resources, expertise and commitment invested in the planting and harvesting processes. He commended DUFARMS for its dedication and appreciated the University Management for its continued support for research, innovation and the conversion of research outcomes into practical solutions.
Earlier, the Ag. Director of DUFARMS, Dr. Emmanuel Bankole, expressed appreciation to the University Management for its continued support, stressing that the achievements recorded by the Directorate would not have been possible without the backing of the Management.
Highlighting one of the major innovations behind the yam production, Dr. Bankole explained that DUFARMS had successfully applied the minisett technology in producing yam planting materials. The technology has enabled the University to produce its own planting materials rather than relying on external procurement.
According to him, the planting materials produced during the year had an estimated market value of approximately ₦4 million, representing significant savings for the University through local production and demonstrating the economic value of agricultural research and innovation.
Dr. Bankole, a former Chairman of the Ogun State Branch of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), described the achievement as an important milestone for DUFARMS. He disclosed that the Directorate was working towards further perfecting the technology and making its yam planting materials available to other institutions and organisations interested in yam conservation and production.
Beyond yam, a wide range of farm produce was also displayed for sale, including eggs, frozen chicken, plantain, banana, vegetables and elubọ iṣu, among others.
The flag-off ceremony was attended by the Dean, College of Agricultural Management and Rural Development (COLAMRUD), Prof. Emmanuel Fakoya; the Senior Deputy Registrar, Vice-Chancellor’s Office, Mr. Moses Ayanda; and members of the University Community who turned out to purchase the various farm products.