COOU FACULTY OF AGRICULTURE HOSTS 4TH INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE, CHAMPIONS CLIMATE-SMART AGRICULTURE FOR FOOD SECURITY

The Faculty of Agriculture, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, held its 4th International Hybrid Agricultural Conference at the ETF Hall, Igbariam Campus, bringing together distinguished scholars, researchers, agricultural experts, policymakers and other stakeholders to explore innovative approaches to strengthening food security and sustainable agricultural development.

The conference, themed “Innovative and Climate-Smart Agriculture for Resilient Food Systems and Sustainable Development,” focused on the role of research, technology and strategic collaboration in addressing emerging challenges in the agricultural sector.

In his welcome address, the Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, Prof. H. U. Nwalieji, welcomed distinguished guests, scholars, researchers and participants, emphasising the importance of innovative and climate-smart agricultural practices in building resilient food systems. He highlighted the need for research, collaboration and sustainable solutions to address agricultural challenges, improve food security and promote development.

Similarly, the Local Organising Committee Chairman, Dr. Frank C. Okenmuo, in his opening remarks, underscored the importance of technological innovation, climate-smart practices and research collaboration, stressing that practical solutions are essential to strengthening food production and ensuring sustainable agricultural development.

Delivering the Vice-Chancellor’s opening remarks, the DVC, Development and Uli Campus Affairs, Prof. Sylvia Okonkwo, welcomed participants to the conference and to COOU, the Now University and of the Future. She described agriculture as much more than the cultivation of crops, noting that it sustains families, contributes to national income and remains fundamental to economic development. She therefore encouraged greater commitment to agriculture, particularly through the adoption of innovative practices that can improve productivity and strengthen food systems.

She further highlighted the growing relevance of climate change adaptation, artificial intelligence and modern infrastructure in transforming agricultural practices, reaffirming that under the administration of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Kate Azuka Omenugha, FNIPR, the University remains committed to strengthening agricultural education, research and innovation.

The conference featured HRM Igwe Dr. Benneth Izuchukwu Emeka, Oke Ebo Umueri, as Chairman and Royal Father of the Day. The keynote address was delivered by Prof. Olugbenga Oluseyi AdeOluwa on the conference theme, “Innovative and Climate-Smart Agriculture for Resilient Food Systems and Sustainable Development.” Also delivering a lead paper presentation was Chief Innocent Chukwuma, CON, who spoke on “From Factory to Farm: Leveraging Nigerian Manufacturing for Climate-Resilient Agriculture and Rural Prosperity.”

Other lead paper presenters included Dr. Nnaemeka Onyeka Obiaraeri, FICA, MIRA; Ogirinye Innocency Adoga; Prof. Chinee Ifejirika Speranza; and Prof. Mohamed Fathy Salem, whose contributions further enriched discussions on agricultural innovation, sustainability and the future of food systems.

The conference reinforces COOU’s commitment to advancing research, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration and providing practical solutions to societal challenges. It also aligns with the Vice-Chancellor’s 3Vs mantra of Values, Viability and Visibility, as the University continues to strengthen its academic relevance and contribute to national and global conversations on sustainable development and food security.

©️COOUNewS, 2026