By Oyajimi Kehinde, Adeniyi Sakiru & Akande Samuel
The Ogun State Coordinating Office of the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC) participated in the training and handover of a Parabolic Shaped Solar Powered Dryer to farmers in the Tube community of Ipokia Local Government Area, Ogun State. The program, which took place on 4th March 2026, formed part of ongoing efforts to promote improved post-harvest management practices and reduce agricultural produce losses among rural farmers.
The initiative was organized by the Nigerian Stored Products Research Institute (NSPRI) with the aim of introducing farmers to improved solar drying technology capable of preserving agricultural produce, improving product quality, and enhancing farmers’ income through better post-harvest management.
The project was facilitated by Hon. Abiodun Isiaq Akinlade, the Honourable Member representing Egbado South/Ipokia Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives. Hon. Akinlade previously served as Chairman of the House Committee on Science and Technology and currently serves on the House Committee on Agricultural Colleges and Institutions. He was represented at the program by his Senior Legislative Aide, Hon. Olabode Caleb.
The program attracted farmers, community leaders, representatives of government institutions, and other stakeholders within the agricultural value chain. In his welcome address, the Chairman of Tube Ward, Mr. Daniel Zangode, expressed appreciation to the organizers and the facilitator of the project for bringing such a valuable intervention to the community. He noted that farmers in the area cultivate crops such as maize, cassava, beans, and groundnuts but often face challenges associated with poor drying and preservation methods, which result in significant post-harvest losses.
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He observed that the solar dryer technology is designed to provide a hygienic and efficient method for drying agricultural produce. Unlike traditional open air drying methods, the dryer protects produce from dust, insects, rodents, rain, and other environmental contaminants while ensuring faster and more uniform drying. The system operates entirely on solar energy, making it environmentally friendly and cost effective since it requires no fuel or electricity.
Leading the RMRDC team, was the Ogun State Coordinator, Mr. Rabiu B.O., alongside other staff members. Mr. Rabiu in his remarks, congratulated the beneficiary farmers and encouraged them to ensure proper utilization and maintenance of the equipment. He emphasized that the adoption of improved agricultural technologies is essential for reducing post-harvest losses, increasing productivity, and strengthening food security in Nigeria.
He noted that RMRDC has continued to promote innovative technologies that support agricultural value addition and food preservation across the country. As part of these efforts, the Director General of RMRDC, Prof. Nnanyelugo Ike-Muonso, commissioned a Solar Powered Smart Storage System at the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority in Abeokuta in September 2025. The facility was designed to help preserve perishable agricultural produce such as tomatoes, pepper, and vegetables for extended periods while maintaining their nutritional value and market quality.
During the training session, technical experts from NSPRI provided detailed guidance on the structure, components, and operational procedures of the Parabolic Shaped Solar Powered Dryer. Participants were educated on the proper installation, effective operation, safety precautions, and maintenance requirements necessary for the efficient use of the equipment.
Farmers were also sensitized on essential safety measures, including avoiding overloading the trays, properly arranging produce on the drying nets, keeping the dryer clean, and regularly inspecting the air vents and protective cover to ensure optimal performance and durability of the equipment.
Following the practical training session, the solar dryer was officially handed over to the Ireti Ayo Farmers Group for use by farmers within the community. The beneficiaries expressed optimism that the technology would significantly improve the preservation of their agricultural produce, reduce losses, and enhance the market value of their farm products.
According to him, innovations such as the Smart Storage System and the Parabolic Shaped Solar Dryer demonstrate the growing role of technology in addressing post-harvest losses and improving agricultural productivity in Nigeria.
The successful training and handover of the Parabolic Shaped Solar Powered Dryer represents an important step toward addressing post-harvest losses among rural farmers. It also highlights the importance of collaboration between research institutions, government agencies, political representatives, and local communities in advancing sustainable agricultural development and improving the livelihoods of farmers.
