We’ll utilize bamboo to diversify, grow economy ―FG

THE Federal Government will continue to partner with the private sector and other spirited organizations in the development and utilization of bamboo for the diversification and growth of the economy in the country.

It said Bamboo production and management had enhanced the economic growth of many nations and this would contribute immensely to the Nigeria’s ecosystem, National economic and creation of employment.

Acting Director of Forestry in the Federal Ministry of Environment, Mr Osakuade Tolu Michael made this known at a scoping Mission by International Network for Bamboo and Rattan (INBAR) on implementation of institutional agreement between Nigeria and INBAR organized by the Forestry Department at the ministry’s conference hall, Abuja.

He explained that the workshop was expected to develop a national strategy/roadmap which would lead to strong coordinated multi-sector action that would guide ministries, private sector, research institutes and civil society organizations in bamboo production and utilization.

The acting director pointed out that the workshop would equally provide capacity development and training programme aimed at addressing current gaps in local policy development, knowledge and skills required to develop industrial value chains.

He said Nigeria became a member of INBAR in 2004 adding that the National Council on Environment approved the constitution and inauguration of the Nigeria Bamboo and Rattan Development Programme (NBARDEP).

“The Federal Ministry of Environment signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to collaborate with INBAR through a new institutional Agreement Partnership in 2016,” he added.

He identified some of the constraints in the development of bamboo and rattan in Nigeria as lack of government policy and legislation, coordination of local and national administrative levels as well as poor funding.