By Rasaq Afeez, Kazeem Rukayat
As part of efforts to strengthen food security in Kwara State, the management of Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin, has recorded another milestone with the successful harvest of its second maize farm, a reflection of the school’s dedication to food security and its commitment to empowering students with practical farming experience.
Speaking during the harvest on Wednesday, 22nd October 2025, the Chairperson of the Kwara Polytechnic Commercial Farm, Engr. Mrs. Ruth Bayeri, stated that the maize was planted on 7 acres of land, while cassava was cultivated on 15 acres.
“We are expecting 12 tons of maize from the second harvest, which will be accessible to the polytechnic and its environs,” she said.
Also speaking at the event, the Deputy Rector (Administration), Dr. (Mrs.) Felicia Awolola, praised the Rector, describing him as an “all-round Rector, project Rector, bank Rector, bell-pepper Rector, and agricultural Rector.”
“He is worth more than that,” she added.
According to her, Kwara Polytechnic is an educational institution with the mandate of producing students equipped with farming experience so that they can be self-sufficient.
She further advised other institutions to emulate Kwara Polytechnic’s efforts, “Kwara Polytechnic is the pioneer tertiary institution in Kwara State, and we will always be the first to introduce new initiatives.”
Dignitaries present at the harvesting event included the Deputy Rector (Academics), Dr. Lawal Babatunde Abdulqadir; the Head of the Agricultural Department, Dr. Banjoko Ibrahim Kayode; the Acting Registrar, Mr. Abdulafeez Amin; the Polytechnic PRO, Hajia Halima Garuba; and the Polytechnic Librarian, Dr. Olarongbe Shuaib Agboola.
Meanwhile, the students, in their separate remarks, shared their experiences and encouraged their colleagues to take farming seriously.
“The practical session has changed our perspective about farming, both within and beyond the institution,” said Rt. Hon. Baki Obasanjo.
Comr. Ezikiel who spoke on behalf of his colleagues appreciated the Polytechnic Rector for introducing new initiatives of farming to the students.
