The Federal College of Horticulture and Agricultural Technology (FECHAT) in Gombe has begun a major conservation programme aimed at protecting indigenous tree species that are gradually disappearing from Nigeria's environment.
The Provost of the college, Dr. Umar Abdullahi, said the institution has expanded its nursery to raise seedlings of native and conventional tree species as part of its commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable agriculture.
According to him, the nursery currently contains seedlings of important indigenous trees, including tamarind, baobab, Adansonia digitata, and Borassus species.
Abdullahi explained that the college plans to establish a dedicated plantation where these trees will be preserved for future generations, ensuring they remain available for research, education, and conservation even if they disappear from the wild.
He noted that conserving indigenous plant species has become increasingly important because many trees that were once common in local communities are now becoming rare.
Beyond conservation efforts, the college is also strengthening partnerships with local farmers. Abdullahi disclosed that the institution has partnered with Plough Ministry of Nigeria on an out-grower programme involving maize and soybean cultivation, with more than 100 farmers already participating.
Under the scheme, participating farmers receive improved seeds, fertilisers, agrochemicals, and technical support before selling their harvest to the organisation at prevailing market prices.
Although the organisation was prepared to support cultivation on up to 1,000 hectares, the college has initially allocated 50 hectares to evaluate the programme before expanding it in the future.
The provost added that agricultural experts from the institution will continue to monitor the participating farmers and provide technical guidance throughout the farming season.
He also revealed that student enrolment at the college has increased significantly—from about 250 to 1,250 students—following reforms such as the establishment of a JAMB support centre, community outreach programmes, and access to the Federal Government's Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND).
Abdullahi described the increase in enrolment as a major milestone, saying the reforms have transformed the institution and strengthened its contribution to agricultural education, community development, and environmental sustainability.
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