A Life Rooted in Purpose

One man's journey of growth through research, resilience, and agriculture —
Dr. Emmanuel Abiodun Awelewa

1. Can you introduce yourself and share how your journey with JB Farms began?

My name is Dr. Emmanuel Abiodun Awelewa. I hold a B.Tech degree in Industrial Microbiology from the Federal University of Technology, Akure; an M.Sc. degree in Environmental Management from the University of Uyo; and a Ph.D. degree in Agriculture and Forest Resources Conservation/Management from the University of Calabar, Nigeria.

I began my professional career in 2002 as an Assistant Farm Manager with Princemide Investment Ltd. In 2003, I served as a Programme Manager, where I midwifed the creation of the Community Plantation Development Scheme (CPDS) in rubber (Hevea brasiliensis) plantations for Akwa Ibom State. I later rose to the position of Project Manager, where I was involved in the establishment of a combined 1,400 hectares of oil palm plantations across Ekiti, Ondo, and Akwa Ibom States. I joined JB Farms, Oban, on February 14, 2017, where I brought my research expertise and agricultural problem-solving skills to bear by establishing and leading the company's Research and Development (R&D) Department.

2. What inspired you to pursue a doctoral degree while working here?

Actually, I began my doctoral programme before joining JB Farms. I was admitted to the University of Calabar in 2012, while I joined JB Farms in 2017. At that point, I had already completed my coursework, research work, and field studies, and was only awaiting my final clearance and dissertation defence. I eventually defended my dissertation in 2018 and was awarded a Ph.D. degree in Agriculture and Forest Resources Conservation/Management.

3. What were the biggest challenges you faced balancing academic work with your responsibilities on the farm?

There were not many challenges, as I was already at the final stage of my doctoral programme and only needed to complete my clearance and defence. This meant I did not have to spend extended periods away from my duties on the farm, which could have been challenging given the sensitivity of my role in the nursery.

In addition, my training as a scientist and researcher helped me to multitask effectively, manage my time efficiently, and put in long hours when necessary to meet my responsibilities.

4. How did JB Farms support or influence your academic growth and professional development?

JB Farms supported me immensely during my final clearance, especially at a time when things were financially difficult for me, and I am forever grateful for this support. The company also provided an enabling environment for learning and growth, broadening my research knowledge and expertise in plantation agriculture, particularly oil palm development.

5. In what ways has acquiring a PhD changed how you contribute to the farm and its operations?

Acquiring a Doctor of Philosophy degree has significantly changed my perspective on life and work. I no longer view outcomes as being caused by a single factor, but rather as the result of multiple interacting variables. This mindset has enabled me to apply scientific and analytical approaches to solving agricultural, environmental, and human-related challenges. My training in innovative agricultural research and forest resource management has helped me adopt Intelligent and Climate-Smart Agricultural Approaches (ICSAA) to minimise losses and optimise productivity through sustainable oil palm production systems.

My M.Sc. dissertation, titled “Effect of Intensive Vegetable Cultivation on Soil Organic Carbon Storage in Southeastern Nigeria,” and my Ph.D. research on “Assessment of Farming Practices for Sustainable Soil Management in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria,” strengthened my understanding of the interrelationship between crops and the soil ecosystem using the concept of the Soil Productivity Index.

I have applied this knowledge in sustainably managing the plantation through a soil-location-based oil palm production system, minimising growth-limiting factors while optimising yield. I have conducted several field trials and research activities, trained and mentored staff across different levels of the plantation, and helped the organisation stay ahead of emerging challenges through strategic and creative thinking.