RAPPORTEUR REPORT FOR THE 2ND FEMI OLOMOLA ANNUAL LECTURE, TITLED: CLIMATE CHANGE AND FOOD SECURITY IN NIGERIA: CHALLENGES AND SOLUTIONS BY PROF. LATEEF SANNI, FIAFOST, FAS, FNIFST (EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR/CEO, NIGERIAN STORED PRODUCTS RESEARCH INSTITUTE (NSPRI).
1. Introduction
The 2nd Femi Olomola Annual Lecture, held on Tuesday, July 30, 2024, and commenced at about 10:35 am. It took place in the Restaurant Gallery Hall of the Academy Inn, Agidingbi, Ikeja. This annual lecture series, established in honor of the late Femi Olomola, serves as a platform to discuss pressing issues affecting Nigeria, with a particular focus on sustainable development, urban planning, and national growth.
The theme of this year’s lecture was “Climate Change and Food Security in Nigeria: Challenges and Solutions.” The event aimed to shed light on the increasingly critical issue of climate change and its direct impact on food security within Nigeria. Given the country’s reliance on agriculture as a primary source of livelihood for a significant portion of its population, the discussion was both timely and significant. The purpose of the event was to explore actionable solutions to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change on the agricultural sector and to ensure food security for future generations.
The lecture was delivered by Prof. Lateef Oladimeji Sanni, the Executive Director of the Nigerian Stored Products Research Institute in Ilorin, Kwara State. His expertise and experience in agricultural research and food security provided a comprehensive perspective on the challenges and potential solutions. The event attracted a diverse audience, including policymakers, academics, industry experts, and stakeholders from various sectors, all gathered to engage in a critical dialogue on one of Nigeria’s most pressing issues.
2. Welcome Address
Tpl. Tayo Awomosun (FNITP), the Chairman of the Lagos State Chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP), delivered the welcome address, setting the tone for the 2nd Femi Olomola Annual Lecture. He warmly welcomed all attendees, including distinguished guests, members of the NITP, and representatives from various sectors, noting that the first edition was held in 2018. He expressed condolences to the National President, who could not attend due to a recent family bereavement. A moment of silence was observed in memory of the late Professor Oye Ibidapo Obey and Dr. Femi Olomola as well as all others who have passed on in the recent past in the profession. Tpl. Awomosun highlighted the six-year break in the lecture series due to unforeseen circumstances and expressed pride in resuming the event. He mentioned the strategic partnership with the Association of Town Planning Consultants of Nigeria (ATOPCON) to ensure the sustainability of the lecture series.
In his address, the chairman emphasized the significance of the annual lecture series in perpetuating the legacy of the late Femi Olomola, who was not only a revered town planner but also a passionate advocate for sustainable development in Nigeria. He explained the importance of the theme of this year’s lecture, “Climate Change and Food Security in Nigeria: Challenges and Solutions,” noting that it reflects the current realities facing the nation.
Highlighting the critical intersection between urban planning and environmental sustainability, he stressed that town planners have a pivotal role in addressing climate change and its impact on food security. Tpl. Awomosun also pointed out that the event provides a unique platform for professionals to engage in meaningful discussions that can lead to practical solutions for the country’s challenges. He expressed hope that the insights gained from the lecture would inspire actionable strategies that contribute to national development.
3. Opening Remarks
The opening remarks were delivered by Tpl. Olutoyin Ayinde (FNITP), the Chairman of the Day and Past President of the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (PPNITP). In his remarks, Tpl. Ayinde reiterated the importance of the lecture’s theme, noting that climate change and food security are critical issues that demand urgent attention from all sectors of society. He praised the organizers for their foresight in choosing such a pertinent topic and highlighted the need for integrated approaches to urban planning that consider the environmental, social, and economic dimensions of sustainability.
Tpl. Ayinde remarked on Tpl. Olomola’s leadership qualities and his dedication to mentoring younger professionals. The chairman reflected on the legacy of Femi Olomola, describing him as a visionary leader whose contributions to urban planning continue to inspire professionals across the country. Mr. Ayinde encouraged the participants to carry forward Tpl. Olomola’s vision for a more resilient and well-planned Nigeria, particularly integrating town planning with sustainable development goals.
He urged attendees to not only listen to the lecture but to actively engage in the discussions and contribute their ideas towards finding solutions to the challenges at hand. His remarks set the stage for the keynote lecture, encouraging a spirit of collaboration and innovation among all participants.
5. Goodwill Messages
Goodwill messages was opened by the National President of NITP represented by Tpl. Ashiru Gbenga (FNITP), National Secretary of NITP. Tpl. Ashiru. He started by welcoming everyone and proceeded to praise the efforts of the Lagos state chapter of NITP and ATOPCON Lagos state Branch for organizing the lecture. The president recognised the significant contributions of Tpl. Femi Olomola to the town planning profession in Nigeria. Highlighting the relevance of the lecture’s theme, the national president stressed the importance of the professional community’s role in addressing the climate change and food security challenges. Finall, Tpl. Atebije lauded the efforts of the organizers to honor the memories of Tpl. Olomola’s legacy, emphasizing that his visionary work continues to inspire the current generation of town planners.
The National President of ATOPCON in person of Tpl. Bisi Adedire (FNITP), followed suit reflecting on Tpl. Femi Olomola’s deep commitment to professional excellence and ethical standards. He lauded Tpl. Olomola as a role model whose impact extended beyond his immediate professional circle, influencing policy and practice at national levels. Tpl. Adedire expressed his hopes that the lecture series would continue to inspire meaningful dialogue and action in the field of urban and regional planning.
Tpl. David Olawale, Chairman of the Association of Town Planning Consultants (ATOPCON), Lagos State Branch, in his goodwill message, acknowledged the distinguished presence of attendees and congratulated both NITP Lagos State Chapter and ATOPCON Lagos State Branch for the joint organization of the event. He emphasized that the collaboration reflected the profound impact of Tpl. Femi Olomola on the profession of town planning. Mr. Olawale observed that the theme for the 2024 lecture was both timely and relevant, addressing pressing issues related to the nation’s economy, environmental conditions, and planning practices. He challenged the professionals and attendees to utilize the opportunity provided by the lecture to reflect deeply on the future direction of their practices. He urged all and sundry to focus on sustainable practices that would benefit the nation’s economy and environment.
The Honorable Commissioner, Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development represented by Tpl. Ayo Adedire, celebrated Tpl. Olomola’s enduring legacy in the field of town planning. The commissioner in his message stressed the importance of education, research, and professional development in carrying forward the values that Tpl. Olomola stood for.
Each guest offered unique perspectives and words of encouragement emphasising how important the event and the legacy of Tpl. Femi Olomola were. There was a collective call to action for all stakeholders, urging them to take the lessons from the lecture seriously and to work collaboratively towards implementing practical solutions that can mitigate the effects of climate change on Nigeria’s food security.
6. Brief Citation of Tpl. Femi Olomola
The citation of Tpl. Femi Olomola (FNITP, PPNITP, PPATOPCON) was presented by Tpl. Tobi Adisa, the Assistant General Secretary of the NITP Lagos State Chapter. The citation highlighted Tpl. Olomola as a highly respected figure in the urban planning profession in Nigeria. Born in Ilesha, Osun State, his passion for organized urban development led him to pursue a career in town planning through rigorous academic and professional training.
Dr. Olomola’s career was marked by significant achievements in both the public and private sectors, where he played pivotal roles in shaping urban development policies and projects. As a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (FNITP) and a Past President of both NITP and ATOPCON, he advanced the practice and professionalism of town planning in Nigeria. His visionary leadership during his tenure as NITP President was noted for initiatives that improved urban planning practices and promoted sustainable development.
Beyond his professional contributions, the late NITP fellow, Tpl. Olomola was deeply committed to community development and environmental sustainability. He was also known for his integrity, compassion, and dedication to his family. His legacy continues to inspire current and future generations of town planners in Nigeria.
7. Citation of Guest Speaker
The citation of Professor Lateef Oladimeji Sanni (PhD), was presented by Tpl. Tobi Adisa, highlighting his illustrious career as a leading expert in food science and technology, particularly focused on tropical root crops. With a PhD in Food Science and Technology, Professor Sanni has held numerous academic positions in Nigerian universities, where his teaching and research have concentrated on post-harvest technology, food processing, and value addition to crops like cassava, yam, and sweet potatoes.
Throughout his career, Professor Sanni has played significant roles in national and international projects aimed at enhancing food security and agricultural practices. His work has led to the development of innovative processing techniques that have improved the shelf life and nutritional value of root crops, benefiting millions of smallholder farmers in Nigeria and beyond.
As the Executive Director of the Nigerian Stored Products Research Institute (NSPRI), he has overseen key research projects to reduce post-harvest losses and improve food storage systems in Nigeria. His contributions to cassava research have been particularly impactful, leading to new varieties and processing methods that have boosted the crop’s economic value.
Professor Sanni’s leadership extends to significant projects funded by international organizations, where he has championed sustainable agricultural practices and empowered smallholder farmers. His work has earned him numerous awards and honors, including Fellowships in prestigious organizations like the Nigerian Institute of Food Science and Technology (NIFST) and the African Academy of Sciences.
8. Summary of Lecture on Climate Change and Food Security: Challenges and Solutions
The lecture delivered by Professor Lateef Sanni, titled “Climate Change and Food Security in Nigeria: Challenges and Solutions,” was a thought-provoking and insightful exploration of the pressing issues facing Nigeria in the context of global climate change. Professor Sanni began by providing an overview of the current state of climate change globally and its specific impact on food security in Nigeria. He emphasized the urgency of addressing these challenges, given Nigeria’s significant reliance on agriculture as a primary source of livelihood for millions of its citizens.
8.1 Highlights of the Lecture
8.1.1 Impact of Climate Change on Agriculture
Professor Sanni detailed the various ways in which climate change has adversely affected agriculture in Nigeria. He highlighted that changes in rainfall patterns, increasing temperatures, and the frequency of extreme weather events such as floods and droughts have disrupted agricultural productivity. These disruptions have led to reduced crop yields, increased post-harvest losses, and greater food insecurity, particularly among smallholder farmers who lack the resources to adapt to changing conditions.
8.1.2. Challenges Facing Food Security
The lecture outlined challenges contributing to food insecurity in Nigeria, including:
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Land Degradation and Soil Erosion: Climate change has exacerbated soil degradation, reducing the fertility of agricultural lands.
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Water Scarcity: Erratic rainfall patterns have led to water scarcity, impacting irrigation and crop production.
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Pest and Disease Outbreaks: Warmer temperatures have increased the prevalence of pests and diseases, further threatening food crops.
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Economic and Social Challenges: Poverty, limited access to credit, and inadequate infrastructure were also highlighted as barriers to achieving food security.
8.1.3. Proposed Solutions
To mitigate the impact of climate change on food security, Professor Sanni proposed several solutions including:
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Climate-Resilient Agricultural Practices: The adoption of sustainable agricultural practices, such as conservation tillage, crop rotation, and agroforestry, was recommended to enhance resilience to climate change.
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Development of Drought-Resistant Crop Varieties: Investing in research and development to produce drought-resistant and climate-resilient crop varieties was emphasized as a crucial strategy.
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Improved Water Management: Efficient water management practices, including the construction of water reservoirs and the use of drip irrigation, were suggested to address water scarcity.
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Policy Interventions and Support for Farmers: Professor Sanni called for stronger government policies that support farmers in adapting to climate change. This includes access to credit, extension services, and climate information.
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Public Awareness and Education: The importance of raising public awareness about climate change and its impact on food security was also stressed, alongside the need for educating farmers on best practices for climate adaptation.
8.1.4. Collaborative Efforts and International Partnerships
The lecture concluded with a call for collaborative efforts at the local, national, and international levels. Professor Sanni advocated for partnerships between governments, private sectors, non-governmental organizations, and international bodies to develop and implement comprehensive strategies that address both climate change and food security in a holistic manner.
8.2. Feedback: Comments, Questions, and Reflections from the Audience
The lecture was followed by an engaging session facilitated by Tpl. Roy Hakeem for comments, questions, and reflections from the audience. The segment allowed attendees to express their concerns, share observations, and seek clarifications on critical issues raised during the lecture. Below is a summary of the key contributions and responses.
One of the participants raised a concern about the conversion of land designated for agricultural purposes to residential and other uses. He questioned the role of town planners in advising the government against such practices and emphasized the need to protect agricultural lands.
2. A Participant expressed concerns about the federal government’s recent approval of GMO (Genetically Modified Organism) seeds and food production in Nigeria. He highlighted potential risks associated with GMOs and sought Prof. Sanni’s honest assessment of their implications.
3. Mr. Olayemi Babatunde Ibrahim from the Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture, on behalf of the Ministry’s officials, commended the organizers for addressing the topic of climate change and food security. He acknowledged the lecture’s relevance to the Ministry’s work and the broader Lagos State community.
4. Tpl. Badejoh Hakeem asked how the insights and key points from the lecture could be disseminated to relevant government ministries, such as the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Environment, to ensure that the strategies discussed are implemented.
5. Engr. Owokoniran reflected on the challenges of returning to traditional farming methods in the face of modern conveniences. He suggested that the lecture’s key messages should be communicated to higher authorities, like President Tinubu, to ensure meaningful action.
8.3. Responses to the comments, reflections and questions by the participants,
Prof. Sanni in a thoughtful response to the concerns and questions raised by the audience thus:
1. On the Conversion of Agricultural Lands: Prof. Sanni acknowledged the issue of agricultural lands being converted to other uses. He emphasized that such decisions often come from political leaders and that empowering town planners and professional bodies is crucial to preserving agricultural estates. He cited similar issues in other states, such as Rivers, where agricultural estates have been converted into residential areas.
2. On GMOs: Prof. Sanni addressed the concerns about GMOs by explaining the role of biotechnologists in developing solutions to enhance agricultural productivity. He acknowledged the risks associated with GMOs but stressed that they could be managed through proper surveillance and regulation. He pointed out that some GMO foods are already being consumed unknowingly in Nigeria and suggested that professionals need to be more involved in monitoring and implementing these technologies.
3. On Disseminating Insights: Prof. Sanni recommended that town planners and other professionals draft concise, actionable points from the lecture to share with government agencies. He suggested focusing on strategic issues such as urban farming, environmental planning, and disaster management, which could capture the interest of policymakers.
4. On Youth Involvement in Agriculture: Prof. Sanni emphasized the importance of involving youth in agriculture, given the opportunities in the sector. He encouraged professionals to mentor and support young entrepreneurs in agriculture rather than expecting retired individuals to invest their pensions in farming.
The reflection session highlighted the active engagement of the audience with the critical issues discussed in the lecture. The concerns raised, especially regarding land use and GMOs, underscored the need for continued dialogue and collaboration between professionals and policymakers. Prof. Sanni’s responses provided valuable insights and practical suggestions for addressing these challenges, emphasizing the role of professionals in guiding and influencing government policies for sustainable development.
9. Response from the Olomola Family
The Olomola family, represented by Mr. Shola Aregbesola and Mrs. Basirat Bairo, expressed their profound gratitude to the organizers, distinguished guests, and participants for honoring the memory of Tpl. Femi Olomola through this lecture series. In their response, the family emphasized how deeply touched they were by the outpouring of respect and admiration for their late patriarch. They acknowledged the significant contributions of all speakers, particularly Professor Sanni, whose lecture aligned perfectly with the values and ideals that Tpl. Olomola stood for—sustainability, innovation, and the betterment of society. The family also reiterated their commitment to supporting the annual lecture series, recognizing it as a fitting tribute to Tpl. Olomola’s life’s work. They encouraged continued dialogue and action on the issues discussed, particularly in the areas of urban planning and environmental sustainability, which were close to Tpl. Olomola’s heart.
10. Conclusion
The 2nd Femi Olomola annual lecture was graced by distinguished guests across various sectors ranging from urban planning, professional organizations, civil service, politics, and academia who played key roles in the success of the lecture. These included representatives from Oyo state, Ogun State, friends and family of the late Tpl. Femi Olomola, Ministries, Departments and Agencies of government in Lagos state.
The lecture was a great success, serving as a platform for intellectual exchange and collaborative discussions on one of the most pressing challenges facing Nigeria today—climate change and its impact on food security. The lecture, not only provided a comprehensive analysis of the issues but also offered practical solutions that can be implemented to safeguard Nigeria’s agricultural future. The event underscored the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, policy support, and community engagement in addressing climate change.
The legacy of Tpl. Femi Olomola (FNITP, PPNITP, PPATOPCON) was a central theme throughout the event. As a pioneering town planner and a visionary leader, Tpl. Olomola’s contributions to the field of urban and regional planning in Nigeria remain unparalleled. His commitment to sustainable development, his advocacy for the integration of town planning with other disciplines, and his passion for mentoring the next generation of planners were celebrated by all who attended. The annual lecture series, now in its second year, is a testament to his enduring influence and the impact he had on the profession and the nation as a whole. Continuing this legacy is not only a tribute to his memory but also a vital step in ensuring that his vision for a well-planned and resilient Nigeria is realized.
Closing Remarks and Acknowledgments
In the closing remarks, Tpl. Olutunde Babawale (FNITP), Chairman of the Organizing Committee, extended his heartfelt thanks to all who contributed to the success of the event. He expressed gratitude to the guest speaker, Professor Lateef Sanni, for his insightful lecture and to the distinguished guests for their active participation and valuable contributions. He acknowledged the efforts of the organizing committee, the sponsors, and the staff at the venue, all of whom played critical roles in ensuring the smooth execution of the event. He highlighted the importance of building on the discussions and initiatives that emerged from the lecture, urging all stakeholders to take the lessons learned forward into their respective fields. Finally, he reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP) and the Association of Town Planning Consultants of Nigeria (ATOPCON) to continue organizing the Femi Olomola Annual Lecture, ensuring that it remains a beacon of knowledge sharing and professional development in the field of town planning.
The event concluded with a note of optimism at about 1:35 pm, as participants left with a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper understanding of the critical intersection between climate change, food security, and sustainable urban planning.
Report by: Tpl. Iorse, M.P
