…as Acting VC harps on sustainable food production practices
Otitoju Femi
The Western Chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Food Science and Technology (NIFST) in collaboration with the Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE), organized11th Regional Food Science and Technology Summit (ReFoSTS) on Monday, June 17, 2025 where sustainable food system was debated.
The event was held at the Faculty of Agriculture, Ikole Campus of FUOYE.
Focus which was on “Resilient Food Systems: Cultivating Sustainability and Security for Nigeria’s Future,” the summit gathered professionals from academia, government, and the private sector to discuss innovative and sustainable approaches to building a secure and climate-resilience food system in Nigeria.
Delivering a keynote address, Acting Vice-Chancellor of FUOYE, Professor Olubunmi Shittu, stressed the need for Nigeria to adopt adaptable and sustainable food production practices in the face of climate and economic challenges.
According to him, “Resilience is essential,” urging a shift from simply increasing food output to embracing smart, sustainable methods across the food value-chain.
Besides, he enlivened FUOYE’s efforts in advancing climate-smart agriculture, digital solutions, and modern agribusiness, with students playing a pivotal role.
Meanwhile, NIFST President, Dr. Bola Osinowo, highlighted strategic role of food systems in national stability.
While addressing key concerns such as malnutrition, food waste, and the overuse of natural resources, advocating for advanced solutions like smart packaging, he said IoT in logistics, and biofortified crops would enhance both food security and public health.
In her welcome address, Professor B.A. Akinwande, Chairperson of NIFST’s Western Chapter, emphasized the historical and agricultural relevance of Ikole-Ekiti.
She noted the town’s origins in the 16th century and its continuing role in agricultural innovation through FUOYE’s presence.
Specifically, she also encouraged guests to visit local cultural sites like the Elekole’s Palace.
Professor Tayo Fagbemi, a NIFST fellow, highlighted the importance of linking academic research with practical applications in policy and industry.
He stressed that the summit is key to shaping food safety laws, encouraging innovation, and guiding national nutrition strategies.
He also addressed the rising need for healthy, functional foods in response to increasing rates of chronic illnesses.
Earlier, the acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Shittu, welcomed the NIFST team at the Vice-Chancellor’s Conference room as he provided an overview of FUOYE’s growth.
He noted the university now had 14 faculties and around 45,000 students, making it one of Nigeria’s most sought-after institutions.
With campuses stretching from Ifaki to Omuo-Ekiti, the university is committed to integrating academic work with community development while praising the decision to host the summit at FUOYE, highlighting the Faculty of Agriculture’s key role in research and innovation.
He, however, emphasized the importance of safe, timely, and nutritious food, noting that good nutrition would reduce the need for medical treatment.
The summit concluded with a strong call for collaboration among stakeholders in government, academia, industry, and civil society.
Participants agreed that achieving food security in Nigeria would require joint efforts, policy support, and continued investment in food science and technology.
Photo Credit: Toye Fisher
