How Kwara Poly turned land encroachment challenge into farming success
By Saka Laaro Ilorin, Ilorin
The Rector of Kwara State Polytechnic, Engr. (Dr.) Abdul Jimoh Mohammed, has highlighted how the institution transformed its land encroachment issues into a successful farming initiative.
This project not only tackled land management challenges but also provided food security for the Polytechnic community and beyond.
In a press briefing held yesterday at the Polytechnic, Engr. Abdul Jimoh Mohammed detailed how the institution’s innovative approach to commercial farming has significantly mitigated encroachment problems.
“With the effort of the management and support of the Ministry of Tertiary Institutions, we have been able to reduce the level of encroachment through the initiative of farming,” he said.
The Polytechnic began by cultivating 20 hectares of land—initially clearing 10 hectares and adding another 10 hectares later.
The first crops planted were cassava and maize, with plans to include soybeans by the end of the rainy season.
“Come next rainy season, the management is planning to cultivate another 20 hectares and we are also considering giving an opportunity to the public for leasing farming space,” Abdul added.
He also noted that details of the leasing arrangement will be forwarded to the Executive Governor, who has been supportive of the initiative.
The State Commissioner of Tertiary Institutions, Hajia Sa’adatu Modibbo Kawu, praised the effort.
Represented by Hajia Rodia Omotayo Yahaya, a Director in the Ministry, she said, “This is a result of foresightedness on the part of the Rector and his management team and is highly commendable. This initiative will surely help address food shortages in the state and beyond.”
Farm Manager and Director of the Institute of Technology, Engr. Mrs. Ruth Modupe Bayero, also commended the Rector’s support. She reported that the farm has yielded 25 metric tons of maize and is targeting 180 metric tons of cassava, underscoring the success of the initiative in overcoming agricultural challenges.
