Minister for Agriculture and Food Security Sen. Abubarkar Kyari, CON has called on Agricultural Research Institutions to work on research that will make kenaf, jute and other allied crops an all-season crop because of their usefulness and potential to provide jobs for youths of Nigeria.
The minister disclosed this while declaring open the first International conference on kenaf, jute and other allied crops organised by the Institute of Agricultural Research And Training, (IAR&T), Ibadan, recently.
The Minister was represented by the executive secretary of Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria (ARCN) Prof.Garba Sharubutu, who also conveyed the message of the Federal Government intention to commit more funds into research programmes that will address food insecurity in the country.
While welcoming partiicipants to the first international conference on Kenaf, Jute and other Allied crops, the Executive Director of IAR&T Prof. Veronica Obatolu stated that the conference marks a significant milestone in the collective efforts of sister research institutes in their journey towards advancing the knowledge, research and applications of these remarkable crops.
“Kenaf and Jute are fast-growing crops making them excellent renewable resources, they require minimal water, pesticides and fertalisers making them more environmentally friendly.
“They are valuable crops with vast potential and can be used to address global challenges such as fighting against climate change because they absorb carbon dioxide more than any other crops,” she added.
Prof. Obatolu added that their uses range from fibre production to paper products, textiles, composites, food and feeds, medicinal uses, erosion control and biofuel.
Prof. Obatolu however commended the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN) and National Institute for Agricultural Research (NIHORT) for their collaboration for the success of the conference which has the theme: Economic Diversification: Unveiling the Potentials of Kenaf, Jute and allied crops.
In her goodwill message Dr. Oluwayemisi Lawal, who represented the Executive Director of CRIN Dr. Patrick Adebola stated that the conference will bring value Kenaf, Jute and Allied crops while urging the Federal government to commit more funds into agricultural research so as to bring out more innovations in the agricultural sector.
She however commended the management of IAR$T for its roles in promoting the Kenaf, Jute and Allied crops.
Executive Director of NIHORT Dr. Babalola in her remarks disclosed that it is important to develop the value chain for Kenaf and keep the nature by given back to it.
The Provost,College of Animal Health, Dr. Adekoya Owosimbo who was represented by Dr. Funmilayo Ogunleke acknowledged the dedication and contributions of researchers , research institutes , farmers and most especially KEPPMAN and industry partners who paved the way for the success of the conference.
Dr. Usman Hassan Argungu who delivered the keynote address through prof Adeniyan Olutayo stated that the economic diversification potential of Kenaf, Jute and Allied Crops lies not only in their direct applications but also in the opportunities they create for value addition and downsream industries.
“By investing in research and development, we can unlock new possibilities for these crops, creating a ripple effect of economic growth and job creation” He added. The Conference ended with the formation of a new association for promotion of fibre and allied crops in the Country with the name Fibre Croos Society of Nigeria to be coordinated by Dr Kareem and with membership spread across the Country .
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