Agricultural Expansion Takes Root
The Vice-Chancellor of Admiralty University of Nigeria (ADUN), Professor Christopher Ndubusi Bankole Ogbogbo, has unveiled ambitious plans to bolster the nation’s food production. He revealed that the university leadership is poised to exploring opportunities to expand its contribution to agriculture to support food production and contribute to the nation’s economy. This initiative aligns with broader national conversations about engaging tertiary institutions in agriculture to achieve food security.
Consequently, the Delta State-based institution intends to convert its vast land into a teaching and research farm. Ogbogbo disclosed this yesterday while reflecting on his first year in office, describing the period as one marked by purposeful transformation, institutional strengthening and strategic growth for the Delta State-based university. He revealed that the institution plans to utilize its vast land area for the establishment of a teaching and research farm, alongside the creation of a Faculty of Agriculture.
The farm is designed for a dual purpose. According to him, the initiative is designed not only to strengthen practical training for students but also to make food available and affordable in the market. This approach mirrors the federal government’s renewed hope agenda, which views universities as critical drivers of agricultural modernisation and economic transformation.
“Beyond teaching and research, the farm will also contribute to food production. Our goal is that people will be able to come to the university farm to purchase food products at subsidized prices,” he said.
Strengthening Academic Excellence Through Recruitment
In a parallel effort to boost educational quality, the university has prioritised attracting top-tier talent. Th Vice-Chancellor, also revealed that one of the most significant decisions taken by the management during the past year was the deliberate recruitment of high-calibre academics from leading universities nationwide. This strategic move comes at a critical time when Nigerian universities are facing a significant brain drain and a mass exodus of lecturers.
“We have attracted academics from institutions such as the University of Benin and other reputable universities across Nigeria,” he said, noting that the move was aimed at improving the academic quality and competitiveness of the institution. The recruitment drive addresses a pressing need, as the sector grapples with severe teacher shortages that threaten academic continuity and quality.
He explained that the recruitment drive forms part of a broader strategy to position the university as a centre of excellence in teaching and research. “That effort has significantly improved the academic quality of this university, and it is an ongoing process,” Ogbogbo stated.
A Year of Collective Progress and Shared Vision
Reflecting on his tenure, the Vice-Chancellor credited the university community for its support. Reflecting on his one-year stewardship, the Vice-Chancellor acknowledged that the journey had not been entirely smooth but said the achievements recorded so far were the result of collective commitment by staff and stakeholders.
“One year in office has largely been a journey with some potholes, but overall it has been smooth because I have enjoyed tremendous cooperation from my colleagues,” he said. He was keen to emphasise that these are not personal accolades but the fruits of teamwork. “Whatever achievements we have recorded are not personal victories; they are the result of a shared vision and the dedication of staff who believe in the future of this university.”