The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the 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. This innovative farming method integrates fish and vegetable production in a single, self-sustaining ecosystem.

The two-day capacity-building workshop, held in Ibadan, focused on the design, installation, and management of aquaponics systems. 

Participants were equipped with hands-on knowledge to improve productivity, conserve water, and expand agribusiness opportunities across the Southwest region.

Speaking at the event, Dr Umar Alilu, Senior Programme Officer at the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Nigeria Office, stated that the initiative is part of JICA’s ongoing efforts to promote food security and technology transfer in Nigeria.

“The idea is to build farmers’ capacity in aquaponics technology,” Dr Alilu said. 

“Through this collaboration between JICA and Kakehashi Africa Nigeria Initiative (KANI), we are training farmers and extension agents to combine fish and vegetable production in one system”. 

“This approach enhances nutrition, increases income, and improves livelihoods.”

He explained that aquaponics maximises resource use by recycling water within the system.

“Unlike conventional aquaculture, aquaponics doesn’t waste water. Fish waste becomes nutrients for plants, and plants purify the water before returning it to the fish tanks. It’s sustainable, efficient, and environmentally friendly,” he added.

Dr Alilu noted that similar pilot programmes had been implemented in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and Benue State, with Oyo State now serving as the third demonstration site.

Dr Bolu Sarumoh, President of KANI, described the training as a reflection of the group’s mission to strengthen the bridge between Japan and Nigeria through innovation and youth empowerment.

“Some people think innovation must come in expensive containers. Not here,” he said. 

“This programme proves that local materials and local skills can deliver global-standard results. With PVC pipes, barrels, locally fabricated pumps, and seeds from agro-dealers, we can build aquaponics systems on rooftops, in backyards, and within cooperatives.”

According to Sarumoh, participants were exposed to both the technical and business aspects of aquaponics, including farm management, record keeping, marketing, and cooperative models. 

He also highlighted KANI’s long-standing partnership with JICA, which began under the Shinzo Abe Initiative for African Youth Development (2013).

“Our goal is to see Nigerian youths turn this training into income-generating ventures and become leaders in smart farming,” he said.

Representing the Lagos State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Mrs Abisola Olusanya, Deputy Director Akeem Olajobi commended the collaboration for promoting technical knowledge sharing across states.

“This initiative supports our vision for sustainable urban agriculture,” Olajobi stated. “With Lagos’ limited land space, aquaponics provides an ideal, resource-efficient solution that fits our urban farming model.”

He added that the programme represents Nigeria’s broader shift from treating agriculture as a social service to recognising it as a viable business sector capable of creating jobs and driving economic growth.

Mrs Folashade Jegede, representing the Director-General of OYSADA, Dr Debo Akande, reaffirmed Oyo State’s ambition to become a leading agribusiness hub in West Africa.

“OYSADA’s mission is to transform Oyo State into a major agribusiness centre,” she said. 

“We’ve implemented youth empowerment initiatives, sponsored training in other states, and supported agribusiness startups. Partnering with JICA and KANI fits perfectly with our strategy to expose our youths to profitable modern farming.”

She stated that the Fashola Agribusiness Industrial Hub is a crucial driver of innovation and employment within Oyo State’s agricultural ecosystem.

Source: The Nation
Image Creditz: NAN