CENTRE COMPLETES DEMONSTRATION FARM TO BOOST AGRICULTURAL INNOVATION, VALUE ADDITION

The Centre of Excellence for Integrated Farming System (TCoEIFS), Federal Polytechnic Bauchi has successfully completed the construction of its much-anticipated demonstration farm. Situated within the Polytechnic’s premises, the farm spans approximately two hectares and is securely enclosed by a wire perimeter fence to prevent encroachment, ensuring the protection of valuable assets and ongoing farming activities.

The state-of-the-art demonstration farm features four fish ponds, including two cement-lined ponds and two earthen ponds, designed to enhance aquaculture activities and support diversified integrated farming systems. To guarantee a stable water supply for year-round agricultural operations, two solar-powered boreholes have been installed. These boreholes supply water to four overhead reservoirs, each with a capacity of 5,000 litres, enabling efficient irrigation and reliable water availability for livestock and crops.

During the handover ceremony held on Wednesday, June 25th, 2025, the representative of the construction company, Engr. Abdulrahman Mohammed, expressed gratitude to the Polytechnic for entrusting his firm with the project. He encouraged the Centre Management to thoroughly study the facilities and provide feedback to enable any necessary adjustments for optimal performance.

Receiving the completed project on behalf of the Polytechnic’s Management, the Registrar, Alh. Kasimu Salihu, emphasized the importance of utilizing the demonstration farm in alignment with its founding objectives. He urged the Centre’s leadership to leverage the farm to add value within the agriculture value chain, thereby contributing significantly to innovation and capacity building in the sector.

Commenting during the event, the Director of the Centre, Dr. Abdullahi Mohammed, pledged that TCoEIFS would "hit the ground running." He outlined plans to expand activities on the farm to include animal husbandry, irrigation farming, and artificial insemination services – all aimed at enhancing integrated farming practices and boosting agricultural productivity.