The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and Kakehashi Africa Nigeria Initiative (KANI) have partnered Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency (OYSADA) to train farmers and extension agents from Oyo and Lagos States in aquaponics technology, an innovative farming system that integrates fish and vegetable production in a single, self-sustaining ecosystem.
The two-day capacity building programme, in Ibadan focused on design, installation, operation, and maintenance of aquaponics systems, equipping participants with practical knowledge to improve productivity, reduce water waste, and expand agribusiness opportunities across the Southwest.
Speaking at the training, a Senior Programme Officer at JIKA, Nigeria Office, Dr. Umar Alilu, explained that the initiative formed part of JICA’s commitment towards promoting knowledge exchange and food security in Nigeria through technology transfer.
He said: “The idea is to build the capacity of farmers with the new technology known as aquaponics.
“Through this collaboration between JICA and KANI, a network of Nigerian postgraduate alumni of Japanese universities, we’re training farmers and extension agents to combine fish and vegetable production in one system. This approach enhances nutrition, increases farmers’ income, and improves livelihoods.”
Alilu noted that aquaponics allows for efficient use of resources 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 said similar pilot programmes had already been executed in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and Benue State, with Oyo State now serving as the third demonstration site under the project.
President of KANI, Dr. Bolu Sarumoh, described the training as a reflection of the group’s mission to build a living bridge between Japan and Nigeria, focused on skills, innovation, and youth empowerment.
“Some people think innovation must be imported in expensive containers. Not here.
“This programme proves that local materials plus local skills can deliver global-standard results. With PVC pipes, food-grade barrels, locally fabricated pumps, and seeds from our agro-dealers, we can build efficient aquaponics systems on rooftops, in backyards, and within community cooperatives.”
Sarumoh explained that the training will expose participants to the technical and business sides of aquaponics, including farm management, record keeping, marketing, and cooperative models.
He added that KANI’s long-standing collaboration with JICA dates back to the Shinzo Abe Initiative for African Youth Development (2013), under which many Nigerian scholars studied in Japan.
“Since then, we’ve extended our partnerships beyond academics to energy, water, and now agriculture,” he said. “Our goal is to see Nigerian youths turn this training into income-generating ventures and become leaders in smart farming.”
Lagos Commissioner for Agriculture and Food systems, Mrs. Abisola Olusanya, represented by the Deputy Director at the Ministry, Akeem Olajobi, praised the initiative for fostering interstate collaboration in modern agriculture.
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“This is a welcome development that promotes capacity building and technical knowledge sharing, Lagos, with its limited land space, is already exploring urban farming models. Aquaponics aligns perfectly with our strategy for sustainable urban agriculture, it’s resource-efficient and scalable.”
He added the programme reflects the broader transformation of agriculture in Nigeria from a social service to a viable business sector capable of creating jobs and driving economic growth.
Mrs. Folashade Jegede, who represented the Director-General of OYSADA, Dr. Debo Akande, reaffirmed Oyo State’s vision to become a leading agribusiness hub in West Africa, highlighting the agency’s commitment to youth empowerment and agricultural innovation.
“The objective of OYSADA is to transform Oyo State into a major agribusiness hub.”
“We have implemented several empowerment programmes, sponsored youths for training in Nasarawa, and disbursed funds to support agribusiness startups. Partnering with JICA and KANI aligns with our strategy to expose our youths to modern and profitable agricultural practices.”
She added that the Fashola Agribusiness Industrial Hub remains a key driver of employment and innovation within the state’s agriculture ecosystem.
