Delegates from the Horticultural Society of Nigeria (HORTSON) and the Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE) have commended Agbeyewa Farms for its pioneering contributions to sustainable and large-scale agricultural innovation during an excursion to the company’s expansive facility in Ipao-Ekiti.
The visit, which formed part of activities marking the 43rd Annual Conference of HORTSON, brought together lecturers, researchers, and students for an interactive learning tour designed to foster collaboration and promote hands-on exposure to modern agricultural practices.
Welcoming the delegation, Antonia Attoh, Vice President of Operations at Agbeyewa Farms, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to transforming lives through sustainable agricultural development.
“Agbeyewa Farms, though less than three years old, operates on over 10,000 hectares, employs more than 1,200 people, and continues to champion innovation, community partnership, and farmer empowerment,” she said.
Attoh further explained that the company’s Ingrower and Outgrower Schemes train and support local farmers with essential resources, capacity building, and guaranteed market access — reinforcing Agbeyewa’s vision of inclusive agricultural growth.
The week-long HORTSON conference, held from November 2 to 6, 2025, featured plenary sessions, technical panels, and field excursions. During the event, Mr. Niyi John Olajide, Chairman of Cavista Holdings and Agbeyewa Farms, was conferred with a Fellowship Award by the Horticultural Society of Nigeria in recognition of his outstanding contributions to agricultural innovation and rural development in Nigeria.
Representing the FUOYE delegation, Dr. Opeyemi Osundare of the Department of Crop Science and Horticulture, expressed appreciation for Agbeyewa Farms’ hospitality and described the visit as “an invaluable opportunity to connect academic research with practical agricultural applications.”
In his remarks, Mr. Komolafe Olufemi, General Manager, Agronomy at Agbeyewa Farms, delivered insights on “Effective Pest and Disease Management for Sustainable Crop Yield and Quality.” He emphasized the importance of government support, research collaboration, and the adoption of integrated pest management practices to enhance productivity and resilience in the sector.
Delegates were also taken through field demonstrations showcasing high-yield cassava varieties and mechanized farming processes capable of achieving yields of up to 25 tons per hectare.
Discussions during the tour focused on strengthening research–industry collaboration to advance food security and agricultural sustainability.
The visit concluded with an interactive session on innovation in agribusiness, underscoring Agbeyewa Farms’ growing reputation as a model for technology-driven, inclusive, and sustainable agriculture in Nigeria.
