Agencies’ collaboration to boost agricultural research, food security

More than 100 hectares of land are to be cultivated by the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU), Abia State, for agricultural research and demonstration sequel to the collaboration the university entered into with the National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA).

Michael Okpara University

She disclosed that Iwe, who expressed satisfaction over the MoU, recalled that he had, during his inauguration as the 6th vice-chancellor, announced that he would put necessary steps towards actualising the Federal Government’s drive to attain food security status in view of the various inherent benefits to the economy.

The spokesperson disclosed that the VC was, to begin with, clearing and utilising at least 50 hectares of land to affect research and demonstrate the results, but that doing so became difficult due to its capital-intensive nature and paucity of funds, adding that he (VC) remained undaunted as he sustained his quest for partners and supporters.

The NALDA Executive Secretary, Prince Paul Ikonne, described the signing of the MoU as a milestone achievement, expressing optimism that expected successful implementation would impact more positively not only on agricultural research but also the attainment of food security, among other benefits for the country.