Professor Emmanuel Fakoya, an expert in Agricultural Extension and Rural Development at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, has launched a ₦1 million annual prize aimed at recognizing and rewarding the university’s best Farm Practical Year student. This initiative, which is funded personally by Professor Fakoya, is intended to honor his late father, Pa Samuel Fakoya, thereby establishing a legacy of excellence in agricultural education. The announcement was made during the university's 110th inaugural lecture, emphasizing the importance of practical agricultural training in the curriculum.

During the inaugural lecture titled 'Measurement and Scaling: Bedrock of Robust Agricultural Extension Research Analysis', Fakoya elaborated on the underlying principles that guide agricultural extension research. He noted that the incorporation of hands-on experiences is crucial for students pursuing agricultural studies, as it prepares them for real-world challenges in the sector. The ₦1 million prize will commence at the upcoming 34th convocation and is set to run annually for the next 10 years, reflecting Professor Fakoya's commitment to bolstering the quality of education in agriculture.

The introduction of such a prize could act as a significant motivator for students, encouraging a competitive spirit among them to excel academically and practically. Furthermore, it highlights the need for educational institutions to support students’ practical learning experiences, which are vital for enhancing agricultural development in Nigeria. This gesture symbolizes a broader commitment to agricultural excellence and the pivotal role of education in fostering sustainable agricultural practices in the country.