By Dwelleth Morountodun
The Federal government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Biocrops, an indigenous private Biotechnology Company
for the production of assorted high-quality seeds and seedlings, bio-fertilizers pesticides and, nematicides to boost food production.
The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Science and Technology Mr. Bitrus Bako Nabasu signed the MOU on behalf of the Federal government while the Chief Executive of Biocrops, Chief Joseph Odusanya signed for Becrops over the week in Abuja.
According to Mr. Nabasu,” Biotechnology is a valuable tool for addressing the several challenges of Nigeria in terms of food production, genetic improvement of living system as well a improved health management, environmental sustainable and industrial growth”.
He added that “the Federal Ministry of Science and Technology through its Agencies as a matter of policy, has been forging and supporting collaborations among public and Private Institutions and organizations to facilitate development, equity investment in projects and access to new revenue and capacity to service delivery”.
In his opening remarks, Chief Executive of Biocrop, Mr. Joseph Odusanya said that the organization adopts a social business model in strengthening its relationship with its clients by focusing on value creation that is delivered in scaled production of assorted high-quality , seeds and seedlings.
He added that the firm is also engaged in scaled up production of Bio-fertilizers, pesticides and nematicides, efficient supply of Biotechnology services agricultural value chain creation, biotechnology consultancy and food production.
He disclosed that Biocrops has brought synergies between farmers top notch Research Institutions within the country , digital finance experts novel-market ready products and indeed game changers in agricultural space
The Ag Director-General of National Biotechnology Development Agency (NABDA) Prof. Alex Akpa said that Nigeria needs Biotechnology to feed it fast growing population as well as provision of employment for its youth’s