The Kogi State Commodity Exchange, Export Promotion and Market Development Agency (KOSCEPA) has initiated discussions with Federal University, Lokoja aimed at building a structured partnership that will support research, agricultural development, and market-driven enterprise across the State.
The Director General of KOSCEPA, Hon. Adewale Victor Omofaiye, led a delegation comprising Directors of the Agency, the Secretary, and the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Fraud and Internet Matters, on the visit to the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Gbenga Solomon Ibileye.
Speaking during the engagement, the Director General stated that KOSCEPA is focused on working with academic institutions to connect research with real sector opportunities. He outlined key areas for collaboration, including research support, student training, internships, enterprise development, and improved market access for agricultural and mineral commodities.
A major highlight of the discussion was the proposed development of plantation schemes, leveraging available land within and around the University for the cultivation of economic trees such as cashew, oil palm, and other viable crops. The initiative is expected to support research, practical training, and commercial production.
In his response, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ibileye, welcomed the initiative and expressed the University’s readiness to collaborate. He proposed the establishment of a dedicated research centre within the institution to drive applied studies in agriculture, commodities, and related value chains.
He also revealed ongoing work on genetically enhanced seedlings aimed at improving growth rates and productivity for farmers, noting that collaboration with KOSCEPA will help expand access to these innovations across Kogi State.
The Vice Chancellor further identified the University’s farm as a ready platform for partnership, where pilot programmes, demonstrations, and training activities can be jointly implemented.
According to him, the areas of collaboration between the University and KOSCEPA are wide and open, with significant opportunities to develop initiatives that will benefit students, researchers, and the broader economy.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to develop a framework that will guide joint programmes, define responsibilities, and ensure measurable outcomes.
KOSCEPA continues to engage strategic institutions in its effort to strengthen commodity value chains, enhance export potential, and create sustainable economic opportunities across Kogi State.
