Cultivating a Brighter Future: TADC and Rivers State University Forge Historic Partnership to Revolutionize African Agriculture

(L-R) Ambassador Davisha L Johnson,Registrar, Mrs. Ibimonia Harry.

In a groundbreaking development that cements Nigeria's position as a leader in agricultural innovation, The African Diaspora Collective (TADC) has partnered with Rivers State University to launch a pioneering campus-based agricultural initiative. This transformative project was formalized on June 3, 2025, when Ambassador Davisha L Johnson, Goodwill Ambassador for the State of Georgia (USA) and African Embassy Ambassador of TADC Worldwide, met with Rivers State University Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Isaac Zeb-Obipi, and Registrar, Mrs. Ibimonia Harry.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Isaac Zeb-Obipi, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, highlighting the university's commitment to supporting initiatives that promote agricultural development and innovation. Prof. Zeb-Obipi noted that the partnership would enable the university to leverage TADC's expertise, resources, and network to enhance its agricultural programs and research. He emphasized that the initiative would not only benefit the university but also contribute to the broader goals of promoting food security, reducing poverty, and driving economic growth in Nigeria and beyond.

Prof. Zeb-Obipi further stated that the university is committed to providing the necessary support and resources to ensure the success of the initiative. He appreciated Ambassador Johnson and TADC for their vision and commitment to transforming African agriculture and promoting sustainable development. The Vice-Chancellor's sentiments underscore the university's dedication to innovation and collaboration in the pursuit of agricultural excellence.

The partnership between TADC and Rivers State University is multifaceted, encompassing several key areas that promise to revolutionize African agriculture. One of the most significant aspects of this partnership is the establishment of TADC's third Nigeria office on the university's campus. This strategic move will enable students and staff to connect with TADC's Global Black Supply Chain through the Fight for 15 Global Compact, providing unparalleled opportunities for collaboration, innovation, and growth.

A One-Hectare Sustainable Farm University model will be created as a demonstration and training site, marking the first of its kind in Africa at a public university. This cutting-edge facility will serve as a hub for agricultural innovation, providing students, researchers, and farmers with hands-on experience and training in sustainable agricultural practices.

The partnership also includes launching study abroad and fellowship programs with Historically Black Colleges like Fort Valley State University in Georgia. These programs will provide students and faculty with opportunities for international collaboration, knowledge sharing, and skill development. Joint training programs between Nigerian and international institutions will also be established, further enhancing the capacity of African agricultural institutions.

Strategic alignment with potential USDA and sovereign wealth funds grant funding will accelerate innovation in African academic agriculture. This support will enable researchers and students to access cutting-edge technology, expertise, and resources, driving innovation and entrepreneurship in the agricultural sector.

The university will also host the Annual International Agricultural Academia Specialty Crop (IAASC) Summit on its campus. This summit will provide a platform for experts, researchers, and policymakers to share knowledge, showcase innovations, and discuss pressing issues in African agriculture.

Project 2040: A Flagship Initiative for Job Creation

This partnership is part of Project 2040, a flagship program of the Fight for 15 Global Compact campaign. The project aims to create 50 million jobs across 15 African countries and 15 heavily populated African descendant countries by 2040. This ambitious initiative aligns with the United Nations' Agenda 2030 and the African Union's Agenda 2063 goals, underscoring the critical role that agriculture can play in driving economic growth, reducing poverty, and promoting sustainable development.

A New Era of Agricultural Innovation

Ambassador Johnson emphasized Nigeria's leadership role in the global agricultural revolution, stating, "Nigeria is not just participating in the global agricultural revolution — it is leading it."

The partnership between TADC and Rivers State University marks a significant step towards revolutionizing African agriculture, fostering innovation, and promoting economic growth. With its focus on research, training, and global connections, this initiative has the potential to make a lasting impact on the continent's agricultural sector, improving food security, reducing poverty, and promoting sustainable development.