The Director Agribusiness incubation Centre, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Dr Philips Nto says the Vice Chancellor, 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.
Dr Philips who Nto disclosed this yesterday while conducting newsmen around facilities in the centre 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, adding 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 pointed out that training of people in the modern technologies of farming will help ensure that states around the University do not suffer food insecurity and expressed confidence that with the staff of the centre being seasoned professionals in the areas of agriculture, Agribusiness and ancillary support services, the target is achievable.
The centre Director thanked the Vice Chancellor, Prof Iwe for his sustained encouragement, which has assisted the centre to carry out its core mandate and made it clear that Nigeria would soon overcome its challenges of food insecurity if youths are trained and empowered to participate in agriculture and agribusiness.
