The Nigerian government has made moves to improve yields for farmers by upgrading agricultural soil using local raw materials through innovative means.
The Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Uche Nnaji, made this known at the signing of a Memorandum of Cooperation between the Ministry, Flux carbon plc limited, and National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency NBRDA.
The Minister noted that the collaboration aims to introduce innovative methods that can significantly increase crop yields, lower costs for farmers, and contribute to sustainable agricultural practices.
‘Flux’s work with the National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency will ensure that these solutions are adapted to our local conditions, leveraging the expertise and resources available right here in Nigeria’. He said
Nnaji added that the MoU symbolizes their commitment to working hand in hand with local and international partners to create meaningful impact.
‘By focusing on sustainable agriculture, we are not
only addressing the immediate needs of food security but also creating jobs and fostering economic development’.
The Minister stressed that the current surge in food prices across the nation underline the urgent need for innovative and sustainable solutions.
‘The Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology is committed to driving such solutions, in alignment with the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda. We believe that science and technology are the engines for transforming our agricultural sector, enhancing productivity, and ensuring that no Nigerian goes hungry’ he added.
The Chief Executive Officer Flux Carbon Ltd., Mr Sam Davies said that the partnership aligns with their commitment to harnessing innovative solutions to address global challenges, particularly in the areas of climate change and food security.
He explained that Enhanced Rock Weathering ERW offers a promising approach to sequester carbon dioxide and improve soil health, thereby contributing to both climate resilience and agricultural pro
ductivity.
‘By collaborating with the Government of Nigeria through the Federal Ministry, we aim to explore the potential of ERW to enhance food security and contribute to sustainable development in Nigeria. We are confident that through this partnership, we can develop effective strategies to implement ERW at scale and realize its full potential benefits for the people of Nigeria’. He added.
The Director General, National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency NBRDA Prof Mustapha Abdullahi said that the ERW will alleviate the suffering of farmers as it will boost the yield of crops for a few years even without the use of fertilizer.
He noted that the ERW is a natural material which will be harnessed from the country and has undergone testing for it’s suitability and ability to reclaim the soil to its original status.
‘The solution is that you are going to get fertilizer almost for free. This weather drop that is going to be sprayed on the farm and the farm is going to produce a high yield of upto
around 40 percent. It is going to reduce the cost of production of food crops. You know we have introduced the Tela maize and now the soil which is going to be enhanced at almost no cost because when you apply the weather drop, it is going to stay at least four to five years without applying any fertilizer’.
Prof Mustapha noted that these rocks are already available in the country and will just be grinded and applied to the farms.
Source: Voice of Nigeria