As part of ongoing efforts to promote agricultural biotechnology and support rural development, the National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NBRDA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with One Hectare One Family (1H1F), a grassroots initiative committed to empowering families through sustainable agriculture.
The agreement, signed on Tuesday in Abuja, marks a significant milestone in leveraging biotechnology to drive sustainable farming, innovation, food security, and rural empowerment across Nigeria.
The collaboration aligns with 1H1F’s broader initiative to distribute one million banana seedlings to farmers in Niger State under its homestead farming scheme, in partnership with the state government.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, the Director General of NBRDA, Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha, stated, “This partnership is a crucial step in addressing farmers’ challenges in accessing quality seedlings and enhancing agricultural productivity in Nigeria.”
“Through the application of biotechnology, we aim to empower communities, promote food sustainability, stimulate economic growth, generate employment, and enhance nutrition.
“Our collaboration will help meet the growing demand for high-quality banana seedlings while supporting farmers in their cultivation efforts.”
The Chief Operating Officer of One Hectare One Family, Onyaole Koku, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “This collaboration will enable farmers to access clean, disease-free planting materials, resulting in improved yields, increased income, and improved food security.”
“Our mission is to provide every Nigerian family with practical agricultural solutions. Working alongside NBRDA ensures that farmers benefit from the highest quality seedlings to maximise their productivity and earnings.”
Under the agreement, 1H1F will upgrade NBRDA’s tissue culture laboratory, supply consumables, cover operational costs, and provide technical staff. NBRDA will offer scientific expertise, laboratory access, quality assurance, and support joint research efforts.
Furthermore, 1H1F has pledged future financial and material support to NBRDA to strengthen ongoing research and development in biotechnology.
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