Research : Nigerian Government Pledges Support for Institute, Lauds ‘Digital ED’

The Federal Government has said it will increase support for the National Root Crops Research Institute (NRCRI) Umudike, Abia state Nigeria to achieve its mandate.

The Minister of state for Science, Technology and Innovation, Chief Henry Ikechukwu Ikoh stated this at the 2023 edition of the NRCRI Annual Review and Planning Workshop in Abia state.

Speaking, the Minister said the support becomes necessary following the critical role the institute is playing in research, particularly around root and tuber crops.

His words: “Agric-based economy is where we are going, we are committed to lifting people out of poverty. The only way we can achieve this is through agriculture, and agriculture cannot go far without research.

“We must build agricultural value chains to first feed ourselves and for foreign exchange earnings through export.

“There is light at the end of the tunnel, but for success to be achieved in agriculture, Nigeria will need improved technology.”

Also, the minister lauded the Executive Director of the institute, Prof Chiedozie Egesi for his outstanding leadership and accomplishments since he resumed office.

I am sure that the new ED will move the institute forward from the position it has been for years to a digital level.

“The institute now has a “Digital Professor”, Nigeria will move from its present state to the next level, especially in agricultural research.”

Ikoh therefore, called for partnership and synergy with relevant stakeholders to move the institute forward.

Agro Nigeria / Foluke Ibitomi