FPI Dam: A Timely Corridor To Food Security, Social, Environmental Benefits – Rector Akinde

BY ABU-SATAR HAMED 

ILARO-YEWA, OGUN STATE, NIGERIA – Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro (FPI) – recently upgraded to the Federal University of Technology, Ilaro (FUTI) – Dr. Mukail Aremu Akinde, FCA, FCTI, has described the ongoing construction of the institution’s dam as a timely and strategic step toward ensuring food security and unlocking social and environmental benefits for the community.

The long-anticipated project officially commenced on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, with the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority (OORBDA) mobilizing to site for the Turning of the Sod Ceremony, marking the start of the construction phase.

Speaking to journalists in his office on Friday, July 18, 2025, Dr. Akinde expressed gratitude to the Federal Government, led by President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, and Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola (Yayi), who represents Ogun West Senatorial District, for their support in making the dam project a reality.

According to the Rector, the dam’s construction aligns perfectly with the recent establishment of the School of Agriculture at FUTI.

He disclosed that the water infrastructure will serve as a practical resource for agricultural training while bolstering the community’s food production capacity.

“With this dam, I can confidently say that FUTI can significantly contribute to food security in the region.

“The institution is capable of cultivating at least 100 hectares of farmland. For example, a pilot project using a prototype dam recently produced an impressive yield of tomatoes, which we were able to sell to the community at subsidized rates”, Akinde stated.

Beyond agriculture, Dr. Akinde highlighted the dam’s potential for power generation, stating that the installation of an appropriate turbine could resolve the institution’s erratic electricity supply.

“The economic impact of a dam is immeasurable”, Akinde emphasized.

Speaking on the broader implications of the project, Engr. Olumuyiwa Aikulola, a civil engineer specializing in water resources, noted that while the dam is located within FUTI, its benefits would extend far beyond the institution.

“The surrounding communities will benefit significantly – from increased agricultural productivity and water supply to employment generation and income opportunities.

“A dam of this scale will require a large workforce, including technical experts, artisans, and laborers. And once operational, the irrigation network will not be limited to FUTI alone. The entire value chain will thrive”, Aikulola said.

However, he cautioned that proper management is essential to avoid flooding and other environmental challenges, though such risks are minimal when dams are well maintained.

Tpl Lukman Lasisi, Deputy Rector (Administration), added that the advantages of the dam extend well beyond crop production. He highlighted its potential for fish farming, water supply for construction, environmental management, and even recreation and tourism.

“The dam can supply water to tankers for construction sites and provide nearby farmers with irrigation water.

“Its impact on the environment is also significant, as it provides a mechanism for controlling runoff water and reducing the need for boreholes – which can become hazardous over time”, Lasisi said.

He emphasized that surface water treatment, enabled by the dam, offers a cleaner and more sustainable source of potable water for the campus.

“Ultimately, the dam will support the creation of a Recreation Park, attracting tourists and offering a serene environment for community use.”

With construction now underway, the FPI/FUTI Dam project stands as a promising investment in the region’s future – enhancing agriculture, creating jobs, protecting the environment, and improving quality of life for both the institution and the surrounding communities.