The Federal University of Lafia (FULafia) has announced a partnership with the Sugarcane Technologists Society of Nigeria (STSN) to promote research and increase sugarcane production in the country.
The Vice Chancellor of the university, Prof. Shehu Abdul-Rahman, made this known during the opening of STSN’s second International Conference, held on Wednesday at the university in Lafia, Nasarawa State. He was represented by Prof. Aleruchi Chuku, Provost of the College of Health and Sciences.
He said the university is committed to supporting research in agriculture, especially sugarcane farming, to help improve production.
According to him, the results from the research will first be tested at the Dangote Sugar Refinery in Tunga, Awe Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, to prove its value in achieving better crop yield.
The Vice Chancellor praised STSN for holding the conference at the university, describing it as a good platform for sharing ideas to grow the sugarcane value chain.
He also assured that the university is ready to work closely with stakeholders to ensure the sustainable production of sugar in Nigeria.
The National President of STSN, Prof. Gbadebo Olaoye, said the conference is aimed at strengthening collaboration for better sugarcane production so Nigeria can be self-sufficient for local consumption and export.
He explained that the event is a call for joint action to make Nigeria’s sugarcane industry strong and competitive.
Prof. Olaoye added that STSN also plans to improve international partnerships to meet global best practices in sugarcane farming.
He said the society would invest in research and ensure farmers benefit from the findings, which would increase their income and improve production.
He urged farmers to adopt modern farming methods, better irrigation systems, and the right fertilizers to reduce waste and increase profit.
The keynote speaker, Dr. Muhammad Indagi-Ishaq, encouraged industry stakeholders to take action and work together to grow sugar production in Nigeria.
Speaking on the theme, “Renewed Hope of Boosting Sugarcane Value Chain from Farm to Factory for Sustainable Industrial Development”, he identified the challenges affecting sugarcane farming and called for joint solutions.
Prof. Usman Dakwes, Director of the Dangote Sugarcane Research Centre at FULafia, also described the conference as timely and important for the country’s sugar sector.
He said the outcome of the conference would help improve both sugarcane farming and sugar production nationwide.
