Oyo, Lagos Farmers Trained In Aquaponics Technology As JICA, KANI, OYSADA Promote Smart Farming In Ibadan
•By KAZEEM OYENIYI
IBADAN – IN a renewed push to boost food security and empower key stakeholders in agribusiness, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the Kakehashi Africa Nigeria Initiative (KANI), in collaboration with the Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency (OYSADA), have commenced a two-day training programme for farmers and agricultural extension agents from Oyo and Lagos States on aquaponics technology.
The capacity-building workshop, which began on Monday in Ibadan and runs from November 3rd to 4th, focuses on the design, installation, operation, and maintenance of aquaponics systems — an innovative farming method that combines fish and vegetable production in a single, self-sustaining ecosystem.
Speaking at the opening session, Dr. Umar Alilu, Senior Programme Officer at JICA Nigeria Office, explained that the initiative reflects JICA’s commitment to promoting food security in Nigeria through technology transfer and capacity development.
“The idea is to build the capacity of farmers with the new technology known as aquaponics,” he said.
“Through this collaboration between JICA and KANI, a network of Nigerian alumni of Japanese universities, we’re training farmers and extension agents to combine fish and vegetable production in one system. This approach enhances nutrition, increases farmers’ income, and improves livelihoods.”
Dr. Alilu noted that aquaponics enables efficient use of water and resources, adding that the system’s recycling process makes it both sustainable and environmentally friendly.
“Unlike conventional aquaculture, aquaponics doesn’t waste water. Fish waste becomes nutrients for plants, and the plants, in turn, purify the water before returning it to the fish tanks,” he explained.
He revealed that similar pilot programmes have already been executed in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and Benue State, with Oyo State now serving as the third demonstration site under the project.
President of Kakehashi Africa Nigeria Initiative (KANI), Dr. Bolu Sarumoh, described the training as a reflection of the group’s mission to build a “living bridge” between Japan and Nigeria through skills development, innovation, and youth empowerment.
“Some people think innovation must be imported in expensive containers not here,” he said.
“This programme proves that local materials plus local skills can deliver global-standard results. With PVC pipes, food-grade barrels, locally fabricated pumps, and seeds from our agro-dealers, we can build efficient aquaponics systems on rooftops, in backyards, and within community cooperatives.”
Dr. Sarumoh added that participants would gain practical exposure not only to system setup and maintenance but also to farm management, record keeping, marketing, and cooperative models.
He emphasized that KANI’s collaboration with JICA dates back to the Shinzo Abe Initiative for African Youth Development (2013), which enabled many Nigerian scholars to study in Japan.
“Since then, we’ve expanded our partnerships beyond academics to energy, water, and now agriculture,” he said.
“Our goal is to see Nigerian youths turn this training into income-generating ventures and become leaders in smart farming.”
Speaking on behalf of OYSADA Director-General, Dr. Debo Akande, Mrs. Folasade Jegede reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to making Oyo State a leading agribusiness hub in West Africa.
“Our objective at OYSADA is to transform Oyo State into a major agribusiness hub,” she said.
“We have implemented several empowerment programmes, sponsored youths for training in Nasarawa, and disbursed funds to support agribusiness startups. Partnering with JICA and KANI aligns perfectly with our strategy to expose our youths to modern and profitable agricultural practices.”
Jegede also noted that the Fashola Agribusiness Industrial Hub remains a cornerstone of Oyo State’s efforts to create jobs and stimulate innovation in the agriculture sector.
Representing the Lagos State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Mrs. Abisola Olusanya, Deputy Director Mr. Akeem Olajobi commended the partnership for promoting interstate collaboration and capacity building in modern agriculture.
“This is a welcome development that promotes knowledge sharing and technical advancement,” Olajobi said.
“Lagos, with its limited land space, is already exploring urban farming models. Aquaponics aligns perfectly with our strategy for sustainable urban agriculture. It’s resource-efficient, scalable, and ideal for our environment.”
He added that the initiative reflects the ongoing transformation of agriculture in Nigeria, from a social service into a viable business capable of driving economic growth and job creation.
Over the two-day programme, participants are expected to engage in hands-on sessions covering aquaponics system assembly, water quality testing, fish stocking, plant integration, and maintenance. They are also expected to receive training in agribusiness management, record keeping, and farm-to-market strategies.
The programme targets at least 30 percent female participation, with plans to support at least 20 percent of trainees to transition into full-time aquaponics production within 12 months.