An expert in the agricultural sector has called on the Federal Government to leverage on developing organic agriculture production to boost food security in Nigeria.
The Coordinator of Network of Organic Agriculture Researchers, Dr. Olugbenga Adeoluwa, made this call on Tuesday during a virtual conference.
According to the expert, there are lots of scientific innovations like development of natural pre and probiotics, and mechanical innovations that are already available to make farming more productive.
He regretted the absence of scientific innovation adaptable in organic agriculture production, adding, we have been privileged to witness technology deployed in organic farms in Israel, Sweden, South Korea, Germany and the United States.
“This is one of the reasons for lower productivity from organic farms in many developing countries compared to the developed ones. We must invest in sector research in order to increase production and productivity in Africa.”
Similarly, he said, “Africa is still a virgin land regarding exploration of science and innovation-driven organic agricultural development. We are doing our best to contribute our quota to grow the sector in the continent through several activities.”
According to Adeoluwa, researchers who understand the vagueness of their innovation efforts if not adopted by farmers know that they must work with and learn from them.