The Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro (recently upgraded to Federal University of Technology, Ilaro, Dr Mukail Akinde, has praised the ongoing construction of a multimillion-naira dam on the institution’s campus, describing it as a timely and strategic intervention that will significantly enhance food security, tackle flooding, and control erosion in the surrounding communities.
Speaking in a statement issued on Saturday, Dr Akinde commended President Bola Tinubu for approving the dam project, noting that it reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to achieving food sufficiency for Nigeria’s growing population.
He also expressed deep appreciation to the Senator representing Ogun West Senatorial District, Solomon Olamilekan Adeola (popularly known as Yayi), for facilitating the project alongside several other developmental initiatives in the area.
According to the Rector, the dam will serve as a vital resource for the university’s recently accredited School of Agriculture, providing an opportunity for students to gain hands-on training in crop cultivation and irrigation-based farming.
“With this dam, I can confidently say that FUT Ilaro will be able to cultivate over 100 hectares of crops. Our pilot experiment using a prototype dam recently produced large quantities of tomatoes, which we sold to the community at affordable prices,” Dr Akinde stated.
He added that beyond agricultural value, the dam holds great potential for addressing the institution’s erratic power supply through the installation of a suitable turbine, thus further boosting learning and innovation on campus.
“The economic benefits of a dam are enormous and immeasurable,” he affirmed.
Also commenting on the development, Olumuyiwa Aikulola highlighted that while the dam is located within the university, its impact will extend to the broader community. He noted that its benefits include year-round irrigation, power generation, flood mitigation, and clean water supply—all of which can trigger widespread economic activity, job creation, and improved livelihoods.
“When a dam of this scale is underway, it attracts a wide range of workers—from technical experts to artisans—creating jobs and new opportunities for many people,” Aikulola said. He, however, advised on the need for proper maintenance to prevent potential flooding, even though such risks are minimal with appropriate management.
Deputy Rector (Administration), Dr Lukman Lasisi, added that the benefits of the dam go beyond crop production. He said the facility opens the door to fishing ventures, improved water supply, and potential tourism.
“When you construct a dam, you solve several environmental problems at once. Apart from supporting agriculture, it can provide potable water, replacing the need for multiple boreholes, which pose long-term risks. Treated surface water remains the best option for clean drinking water,” Lasisi said.
He also noted that the dam could become a hub for recreation and tourism, creating additional value for the university and the host community.
The groundbreaking for the dam project was recently conducted by the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority, signalling the start of a project many believe will transform FUT Ilaro and its environs.
