The Federal University of Lafia (FULafia) has expressed its determination to partner with the Sugarcane Technologists Society of Nigeria (STSN) to promote research that would enhance the production of sugarcane in the country.
Prof. Shehu Abdul-Rahman, Vice Chancellor (VC) of the university stated this at the commencement of the second International Conference of the society held at the institution on Wednesday in Lafia, Nasarawa State.
The VC represented Prof. Aleruchi Chuku, Provost, College of Health and Sciences, said the institution was committed to enhancing research in the Agricultural sector, particularly sugarcane farming, to boost sugar production.
He added that the research outcome would be implemented at the Dangote Sugar Refinery at Tunga, Awe Local Government Area, Nasarawa State first to prove its significance to ensuring better yield.
The VC commended on the association for bringing the conference to the university and said it was a platform to share ideas on boosting the value chain in sugarcane farming.
Abdul-Rahman, therefore, assured that the institution was ready to strengthen synergy with all stakeholders to succeed in the sustainability of sugar production in the country.
In his opening remarks, Prof. Gbadebo Olaoye, National President of Sugarcane Technologists Society of Nigeria noted that the conference aimed to enhance collaboration for improved production toward achieving self-sufficiency for domestic use and export.
He added that the conference is a call to action for them to form their past, and to collectively design a future where Nigena’s Sugarcane industry is not just surviving, but thriving.
He said that the society also wants to strengthen international ties towards ensuring adherence to global best practices in the sub-sector.
He noted that they would also invest in research and ensure that the outcome is used to boost production as well as the income of sugarcane farmers in the country.
“We must embrace modern agricultural techniques to ensure precision in farming, improved irrigation systems, and the use of appropriate fertilisers to minimise waste and maximise profit,” he stressed.
Keynote speaker, Dr Muhammad Indagi-Ishaq, who spoke on the theme ‘Renewed Hope of Boosting sugarcane Value Chain from farm to Factory for Sustainable Industrial Development’, encouraged key players in the sub-sector to rise to the challenges and work to boost sugar production.
He highlighted the factors affecting sugarcane farming and sugar production among industries in Nigeria and urged all stakeholders to put their hands on deck to tackle them.
In his goodwill messages, Director, Dangote Sugarcane Research Centre at the institution, Prof. Usman Dakwes, said the conference was apt and expressed optimism that the outcome would boost sugarcane and sugar production in the country. (NAN).