In a landmark move poised to redefine Nigeria’s agricultural landscape, the University of Lagos (UNILAG) has announced a bold leap into urban farming, partnering with groundbreaking agri-tech leader, Soilless Farm Laboratory.
At the historic meeting, held on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics & Research), Professor Bola Oboh, stood in for the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Folasade T. Ogunsola, OON, FAS, to declare UNILAG’s commitment to a “Future-Ready” agricultural revolution.
Prof. Oboh unveiled the university’s ambitious plans, including the establishment of a Faculty of Agriculture and Food Sciences, pending approvals, and the UNILAG Centre for City Agriculture – both designed to position the institution as a leader in innovative food production.
Highlighting the Vice-Chancellor’s directive to achieve a demonstration-stage project within 12–18 months, she affirmed UNILAG’s determination to act with boldness and speed.
“We recognize the urgency of sustainable agriculture for our growing urban population, and UNILAG is ready to move in boldly,” she said.
The celebrated Lead Trainer at Soilless Farm Lab, Farmer Samson Ogbole, expressed his honour for the collaboration.
“UNILAG’s vision aligns with our mission to transform agriculture through technology,” he stated, pledging full support in curriculum development, training, and rapid execution of the proposed center. In a stunning show of commitment, his company donated the sum of five million naira (₦5,000,000) to jumpstart the initiative.
The meeting culminated in an inspection tour of the proposed site, led by implementation committee members, Prof. Femi Saibu and Prof. Ogunkanmi, alongside Soilless Farm Lab’s Business Development Manager, Ms. Sandra Attah.
With its prime location in Africa’s largest megacity and a powerhouse of academic talent, UNILAG is set to harness urban agriculture as a solution to Nigeria’s food security challenges, proving that the future of farming is not just in rural fields, but in the heart of Lagos.
Report: Isaiah Kumuyi
Photography: Ayo Oloyede
Editor: Nike Ogunshakin
