Food Insecurity at the Grassroots: A Challenge of College of Agricultural Sciences, Joseph Ayo Babalola University, A Nigerian Private University

Abstract

The paper researches the progress of food insecurity in developing countries with special reference to Ikeji- Arakeji in Nigeria, and immediate environ of the Joseph Ayo Babalola University, a private university. The work is aimed at challenging educational institutions to redirect their program to solve problems of their immediate environment. Poverty , illiteracy, government negligence, taboo and underutilization of the agricultural resources were among the prevalent problems confronting the environment. The potential of the institution in terms of human, equipment facilities and availability of funds were also x-rayed to assess the challenge posed to the environ. Recommendations ranging from immediate (preliminary investigations to nutritional needs, disbursement of agricultural loans, road connections to the interior , setting up of University farms) and long (educating the populace with reference to nutrition, land use and job creation) term were highlighted. The College of Agricultural Science of the University is well able to alleviate the poverty posed by food insecurity on her environ if the recommendations could be implemented.