In a landmark initiative, the OCP Farm&Fortune Media programme has not only celebrated the success of the first-ever OCP National Agricultural Quiz Competition; it has also reshaped agricultural education in Nigeria, inspiring the next generation of agricultural leaders.
From Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, 16 high schools were carefully chosen, represented by two students and a teacher, totalling 32 participants. These students, meticulously selected by state secondary school boards, became part of a pioneering venture that would shape the future of agriculture in the country.
The first-ever OCP Farm&Fortune Boot Camp held in 2023 was an integral component of the initiative. This five-day event, held in Ogun State, delved into a comprehensive curriculum covering various agricultural topics, from crop cultivation to innovative technological solutions in farming.
The boot camp provided a platform for hands-on learning and facilitated a dynamic knowledge-sharing environment. Workshops, group discussions, presentations, and farm visits were strategically incorporated, creating an immersive experience for the participants. Student Spotlight segments allowed students to present their research, while reflective diary sessions fostered personal growth. Including health professionals, they ensured the participants’ overall well-being, demonstrating a holistic approach to agricultural education.
On the final day of the boot camp, all 32 students and their sixteen teachers visited the OCP Fertilizer blending plant in Ogun State. This on-site learning experience included engaging with soil experts at the model farm on the blending plant premises, providing invaluable insights into practical agricultural applications.
Hosted by Frank Donga, a famous Nigerian actor and agriculture practitioner, the quiz competition consisted of four rounds with diverse formats and point systems. The questions, meticulously vetted by the National Examinations Council (NECO), spanned various agricultural topics, challenging the students’ knowledge and quick thinking.
General Murtala Mohammed College from Yola, Adamawa State, emerged triumphant, clinching the three-million-naira grand prize. This victory is not just a celebration for the winning school but a testament to the competition’s transformative power in inspiring young minds toward agriculture.
This pioneering quiz competition has left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s agricultural education landscape. It has not only sparked enthusiasm for agriculture but has also underscored its critical role in national prosperity. The OCP Farm&Fortune initiative remains steadfast in its commitment to building the next generation of agricultural leaders, ensuring a sustainable food system, and driving growth across Africa’s agricultural sector.
Despite facing substantial challenges in preparation and travel, the winners showcased unwavering dedication and a commitment to learning. The exclusive interview with the team coach and teacher, Linus Yakubu Tumba, reveals the hurdles they overcame, emphasising that geographical barriers cannot hinder the pursuit of success.
Winning students Sani Muhammad and Yahya Ja’afaru Ngiki shared how the competition and associated experiences have positively impacted their perspectives on agriculture and career aspirations. Exposure to innovative technologies, cultural exchange, and networking opportunities has broadened their educational horizons.
For Sani Mohammed, the experience left a lasting impression: “The completion was not a do-or-die affair, although we were nervous at some point because everybody wanted to win the prize,” says Muhammad. The experience from the boot camp made it easier for us to settle down for the quiz.”
The competition tested the students’ knowledge and provided practical insights into agriculture. Linus Yakubu Tumba, the team’s coach and head teacher, emphasised the role of such competitions in promoting sustainable agricultural practices and addressing the lack of demonstration farms in schools.
The students’ experiences during the competition highlight the cultural exchange and networking opportunities it provides. Exposure to different foods and cultures and making friends from across Nigeria enrich their educational journey.
Sani Muhammad’s intention to use the prize money to further his education showcases the competition’s potential financial impact on students, opening doors for educational pursuits that might have been challenging otherwise.
Linus Yakubu Tumba expressed his ambition to “present General Murtala Mohammed College Yola as one of the best schools in Nigeria and also commend my State Governor, His Excellency, Honorable Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, for giving us quality education and FREE at primary and secondary levels, respectively.” This underlines the broader community and institutional goals associated with participating in the competition.
He also expressed profound gratitude to the organisers of Farm and Fortune for their hospitality, care, and truthfulness, which reflects the positive experience and underscores the importance of supportive event organisers.
The success of the OCP National Agricultural Quiz Competition and the immersive #NextGenFarmers Boot Camp signifies a paradigm shift in agricultural education. This initiative, driven by OCP Farm&Fortune Media Programme, is poised to leave a lasting legacy by inspiring and shaping the future leaders of Nigeria’s agricultural sector.
OCP Farm&Fortune Media Project, an initiative by OCP Africa Fertilizers Nigeria Limited, is committed to building resilient food systems in Africa. Through innovative media projects, educational initiatives, and on-the-ground experiences, OCP aims to inspire the next generation of agricultural leaders and contribute to developing sustainable agriculture across the continent.
