Zulum at IITA,NSPRI, NCAM; seeks Agricultural Partnerships During Visits to Leading Research Institutions
Babagana Umara Zulum, the Governor of Borno State, embarked on a strategic mission as he toured the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) in Ibadan, the Nigerian Stored Products Research Institute (NSPRI), and the National Centre for Agricultural Mechanization (NCAM) in Ilorin, Kwara State.
The governor’s objective is to establish collaborative partnerships with these esteemed agricultural research institutions and technology providers, aiming to tackle the challenges that have plagued the agricultural sector in Borno State due to over a decade of insurgency.
Accompanied by a high-level delegation comprising agricultural engineering professors, technical staff from the Borno State Ministry of Agriculture, and members of the Nigerian Institution of Agricultural Engineering, Governor Zulum aims to leverage innovation, enhance productivity, and ensure food sufficiency for the state’s population through sustainable agricultural practices.
During his visits, Governor Zulum explored the facilities of these institutions, each renowned for its specific expertise. The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) is recognized for its efforts in enhancing agricultural productivity and sustainability. The Nigerian Stored Products Research Institute (NSPRI) focuses on providing effective technologies to mitigate post-harvest losses in Nigeria, while the National Centre for Agricultural Mechanization (NCAM) intervenes to advance mechanization in the agricultural sector.
Governor Zulum emphasized that these collaborations would facilitate knowledge transfer, enabling experts from IITA, NSPRI, and NCAM to engage with local farmers, extension workers, and policymakers. He expressed his intention to harness the outcomes of the research conducted by these institutions for the benefit of the Government and people of Borno State.
The Governor’s tour included guided visits by Dr. Simeon Ehui, Director General of IITA, Professor Lateef Oladimeji Sanni, Executive Director of NSPRI, and Dr. Abdulgafar Rasheed Kamaldeen, Executive Director of NCAM. The interactions aim to pave the way for impactful partnerships that will contribute to the revitalization of Borno State’s agricultural sector.