The Federal University of Technology, Akure, has unveiled plans to scale up the production of its high-yield F1 Bell Pepper variety as demand surges across major Nigerian cities.
By Chimezie Godfrey
The Federal University of Technology, Akure, has unveiled plans to scale up the production of its high-yield F1 Bell Pepper variety as demand surges across major Nigerian cities.
The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Adenike Oladiji, made this known while receiving a batch of freshly harvested peppers from the institution’s Vegetable Production Centre, led by Prof. Ayoola Olalusi of the Department of Agricultural Engineering.
According to her, the university is ramping up its greenhouse capacity from one to six before the end of the year to meet growing market needs and provide hands-on training for aspiring greenhouse farmers.
“We are expanding our greenhouses to meet demand and provide a space where people can be trained in modern vegetable production techniques. The market is ready — we already have growing requests from across the country, and we won’t disappoint,” Oladiji said.
She added that FUTA’s move is part of its strategic commitment to food security and innovation-driven agriculture. “This pepper is not only healthier, it adds value to the market and could place Nigeria on the export map. We’re not just talking; we’re acting,” she said.
Prof. Olalusi, who presented the produce, revealed that the F1 Bell Peppers—available in green, yellow, and red—are already in high demand in Lagos and Ibadan, with several vendors pre-ordering before harvest.
He described the variety as an early-ripening hybrid with sweet flavour, disease resistance, and no need for staking. Each fruit weighs about 250–280g and measures roughly 10–12cm in size.
“This variety can only be grown in greenhouses, and FUTA is ready to mentor farmers and agripreneurs interested in starting small or scaling up commercially. Our goal is to support production for local consumption and possibly move into export,” Olalusi said.
He noted that the university is open to partnering with government agencies and private firms to grow production and generate sustainable revenue streams.
Known for their vibrant colours and culinary versatility, bell peppers—also called sweet peppers or paprika—are loaded with essential nutrients. A 100g serving contains about 31 calories, high Vitamin C content (over 150% of daily needs), and key vitamins and minerals including A, B6, E, and folate.
FUTA said it remains committed to driving innovation in agriculture and creating opportunities for economic growth through research, training, and strategic partnerships.