A pineapple Farm Estate Developer, Davidorlah Nigeria Limited, has recommended investments in pineapple production to drive revenue generation in the country.
The Chief Executive Officer, Davidorlah, Amb. Oluwasegun Alabi, made this advocacy while addressing newsmen on Monday in Abuja.
He urged the government at all levels to create an enabling environment and engage pineapple specialists with track records to turn Nigeria’s revenue situation around.
According to him, Nigeria’s pineapple is the best in the world as many nations are making demands for millions of tonnes which have not been met.
He said that pineapple production was an effective means to diversify the economy, improve infrastructure, reduce post-harvest losses, create jobs and boost exports while addressing rural poverty.
“We urge the government to create an enabling environment that fosters business growth and allows the private sector to thrive.
“To further address the pressing issue of food security crisis in Nigeria, it is essential for the government to further engage the right people in the agricultural sector.
“Individuals and organisation with proven track records and a deep understanding of the industry, who can offer informed and strategic advice on how to solve these challenges with urgency.”
The chief executive officer, however, said that there was a need for quality control, processing facilities, improved international market presence, access to finance and modern technologies to achieve the turnaround.
He said that to make Nigeria a net exporter of pineapple and the highest producer of pineapple in the world, Davidorlah was dedicated to empowering 50,000 Nigerian youth/farmers; providing them with 50,000 hectares of land.
According to him, this initiative will particularly target young Nigerians who have a passion for agriculture and who have studied the field.
“We will offer them comprehensive training and all the necessary resources to succeed as pineapple farmers and Davidorlah is committed to off-take their produce at any given time.
“This initiative will create jobs and empower rural communities as it aims to empower 10,000 agronomist, 10,000 extension officers and 10,000 farm managers in Nigeria.
“Through its operations, Davidorlah will provide employment opportunities to rural communities, helping to alleviate poverty and reduce youth unemployment.
“The value chain in pineapple agriculture is extensive and this programme will also benefit the transporters who will be responsible for moving the produce from farms to various destinations,” he said.
Alabi called for partnership with individuals, companies, government bodies and parastatals to achieve the vision and to put Nigeria foremost in the global pineapple market.
NAN
