13th April, 2026
The Centre for Food Technology and Research (CEFTER), Rev. Fr. Moses Orshio Adasu University, Makurdi, formally inaugurated its Tomato Value Chain Advancement Group (Tomato Thrive). The inauguration was performed by the Ag. Director, Prof. Ogbene Igbum .
The group comprises carefully selected professionals and students drawn from diverse fields, chosen for their expertise, experience, and demonstrated commitment to agricultural development and agribusiness advancement. Members include Prof. Sylvester Adejo (CEFTER), Mr. Ode Ezekiel (CEFTER), Engr. Prince Ijir Aondosoo (CEFTER), Dr. Sunday O. Adoga (MOAUM), Mr. Bemdoo Hulugh (Lower Benue River Basin Authority), Mr. Bagidi Genesis (BNARDA), as well as Mr. Wase Titus and Mr. Tamen Kuma (Vet Konnect).
As part of its initial activities, the Centre will commence targeted capacity-building programmes for farmers, alongside pilot testing of improved tomato varieties in Wannune, and Gboko during the current planting season. This intervention is aimed at enhancing productivity and promoting the adoption of high-yielding, processing-friendly tomato varieties to replace commonly used local types with limited industrial value.
In addition to production, the initiative will address critical aspects of the tomato value chain, including processing, storage, transportation, and market linkages. This integrated approach is designed to reduce post-harvest losses, improve product quality, and increase income opportunities for stakeholders.
CEFTER remains committed to fostering collaboration and leveraging expert contributions to drive sustainable agricultural transformation in Benue State.