The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and Kakehashi Africa Nigeria Initiative (KANI) have partnered with the Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency (OYSADA) to train farmers and extension agents from Oyo and Lagos States in aquaponics technology—a sustainable system combining fish and vegetable farming in a single ecosystem.

Training Overview:

• Location: Ibadan, Oyo State
• Duration: Two days
• Focus: Design, installation, operation, and maintenance of aquaponics systems
• Goal: Enhance productivity, reduce water waste, and expand agribusiness opportunities in Southwest Nigeria

Key Highlights:

• Dr. Umar Alilu (JICA Nigeria):
  • Aquaponics recycles water efficiently: fish waste nourishes plants, which in turn purify water for fish tanks.
  • The system improves nutrition, income, and livelihoods.
  • Pilot projects already implemented in FCT and Benue State, making Oyo the third demonstration site.
• Dr. Bolu Sarumoh (KANI President):
  • The program builds a “living bridge” between Japan and Nigeria, focusing on skills, innovation, and youth empowerment.
  • Emphasized that local materials (PVC pipes, barrels, pumps, seeds) can create global-standard aquaponics systems.
  • Training covers technical, business, and cooperative management aspects, preparing participants for income-generating ventures.
  • KANI’s collaboration with JICA began under the Shinzo Abe Initiative for African Youth Development (2013), now expanded to energy, water, and agriculture.
• Oyo & Lagos State Support:
  • Mrs. Abisola Olusanya (Lagos Commissioner for Agriculture) via Akeem Olajobi:
    • Praised interstate collaboration in modern agriculture.
    • Highlighted aquaponics as resource-efficient and scalable, ideal for urban farming in space-constrained Lagos.
  • Mrs. Folashade Jegede (OYSADA):
    • Reaffirmed Oyo’s vision to become West Africa’s agribusiness hub.
    • Highlighted youth empowerment programs, training, funding for startups, and Fashola Agribusiness Industrial Hub as a driver of innovation and employment.

Impact & Vision:

• Transform agriculture in Nigeria from a social service to a viable business sector.
• Encourage youth-led smart farming ventures, increasing economic growth, employment, and sustainable agricultural practices.