Research Institutes have been enjoined to work on researches that will make Kenaf, Jute and other allied crops an all-season crop, due to its usefulness and potential in providing jobs for Nigerian youths.
The Minister for Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubarkar Kyari, made the call while declaring opened the first International Conference on Kenaf, Jute and other allied crops orgnised by the Institute of Agricultural Research And Training, (IAR&T), Ibadan, Oyo State.
Represented by the Executive Secretary, Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria (ARCN), Prof. Garba Sharubutu, Kyari said, the Federal Government has intention of committing more funds into research programmes that will address food insecurity in the country.
While welcoming participants to the conference, the Executive Director of IAR&T Prof.Veronica Obatolu stated that the conference marks a significant milestone in the collective efforts of sisters’ research institutes in their journey towards advancing the knowledge, research and applications of the remarkable crops.
“Kenaf and Jute are fast-growing crops, making them excellent renewable resources; they require minimal water, pesticides and fertilisers making them more environmentally friendly.
“They are valuable crops with vast potential and can be used to address global challenges, such as fighting climate change because they absorb carbon dioxide more than any other crops,” She added.
Prof. Obatolunoted that their uses range from fibre production to paper products, textiles, composites, food and feeds, medicinal uses, erosion control and biofuel.
She, 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 commended the management of IAR&T for its roles in promoting the Kenaf, Jute and allied crops.
The 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, of College of Animal Health, Dr. Adekoya Owosimbo, 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 downstream 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.”
The conference ended with the formation of a new association for promotion of fibre and allied crops in the country, named – FibreCroos Society of Nigeria to be coordinated by Dr Kareem, with membership spread across the country.
