FEDPOFFA-NALDA MoU—A Strategic Leap Towards Agricultural Sustainability and Institutional Self-Reliance

By Oluwole Solanke (Phd, FCIB) Banking and Finance Department

The recent Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Federal Polytechnic, Offa and the National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA) is a commendable and forward-thinking initiative that aligns with national priorities on food security, youth empowerment, and economic diversification.

At a time when Nigeria grapples with soaring food prices, youth unemployment, and over-reliance on oil revenue, this partnership stands out as a model for how educational institutions can move from theory to practice. It boldly transforms FEDPOFFA from just a center of learning to a catalyst for agricultural transformation—utilizing its vast 450 hectares of fertile but underutilized land for integrated farming, research, innovation, and enterprise.

Kudos must go to the visionary leadership of the Rector, Engr. Dr. Kamoru Kadiri, for not only keying into the Federal Government’s back-to-farm initiative but also for strategically attracting partnerships that speak directly to the Polytechnic’s IGR expansion, student practical exposure, and national development. This is a win-win for the institution, the students, the surrounding community, and the country at large.

By partnering with NALDA, the Polytechnic is leveraging federal expertise, infrastructure, and resources to establish a sustainable agro-industrial ecosystem. The emphasis on mechanization, entrepreneurship, and Agro-Tech training signifies a clear break from outdated methods. It also aligns with global trends of smart agriculture and agribusiness education.

The benefits are immense:

Hands-on learning for students of Agriculture, Engineering, Business and Environmental studies;

Revenue generation from produce and services;

Job creation for both students and local communities;

Food production and research that can impact national agricultural policies.

Moreover, this initiative reinforces the relevance of Polytechnics as institutions not only for technical training but also for national development through practical solutions to real-world challenges.

This MoU should be widely publicized and replicated across other institutions with dormant land assets. Agriculture is not just a fallback—it is the future, and FEDPOFFA is leading that future with clarity, courage, and commitment.

Congratulations to the Management, the Rector, the entire Polytechnic community, and NALDA. This is more than an agreement—it is a legacy in the making.