Prof. Garba Sharubutu, the Executive Secretary of the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria (ARCN), has announced the Federal Government’s approval for the recruitment of 1,650 scientists. This strategic move is geared towards fortifying research initiatives with the ultimate goal of enhancing food security across the country.
The government’s directive places a specific emphasis on engaging plant breeders who will play a crucial role in the development of a diverse range of crop varieties. These recruited scientists, already equipped with training, are tasked with sharing their expertise by training others under the supervision of the ARCN.
Prof. Sharubutu underscored the government’s unwavering commitment to prioritizing food security, urging a targeted focus on quick-maturing crops such as rice, yam, cassava, wheat, guinea corn, millet, and maize. In addition to these staple crops, he emphasized the importance of not overlooking cash crops in the ongoing diversification efforts within the agricultural sector.
Highlighting the broader objectives of the ARCN, Prof. Sharubutu outlined ongoing efforts to develop crop varieties that will contribute to making Nigeria self-sufficient in food production. Notably, the council is actively working on creating insect-resistant varieties of beans and maize, addressing key challenges in crop protection.
Furthermore, the ARCN is collaborating with the National Stored Products Research Institute in Ilorin to develop innovative storage models for essential crops such as yam, cassava, and grains. This collaborative effort aims to enhance post-harvest preservation methods, ensuring a sustainable and efficient supply chain.
The approval for the recruitment of scientists represents a pivotal step in advancing agricultural research and reinforcing the nation’s capacity to achieve self-sufficiency in food production.
