A lecturer at the Department of Agricultural Engineering, Rivers State University, Professor Harcourt Pepple, has called on the Rivers State Government to collaborate with the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) to revolutionize the state’s agricultural sector.
Speaking to journalists in Port Harcourt, Professor Pepple, highlighted IITA’s expertise and experience in Africa’s agriculture, spanning over 50 years of operation in 134 countries.
Professor Pepple called for the re-evaluation of existing agricultural practices and technologies to meet the diverse needs of farmers in different ecological zones of the state. He stressed the need to empower young people and increase their interest in agriculture through technology.
“We believe in the potential of Nigerian youths and the transformative power of education.
“The initiatives, when put in place, should be able to provide Nigerians with direct jobs for individuals to benefit from it. For now, let the government be committed to making Rivers State a centre of excellence in agricultural development,” he said.
The professor expressed optimism that a partnership between Rivers State and IITA would align with the state government’s focus on agricultural development. He argued that by strengthening the agricultural value chain, the state can reduce unemployment and promote self-sufficiency.
Professor Pepple commended the Rivers State Government for its ongoing efforts in skills development, noting that numerous youths have received training in various skills over the past year under the current governor’s administration.