FULAFIA VC Prof. Shehu Abdul Rahman Stresses Importance of Rice Cultivation for Food Security

The Vice-Chancellor of Federal University of Lafia (FULafia), Prof. Shehu Abdul Rahman, has emphasized the crucial role of rice production in achieving food security in Nigeria.

He made this statement during a one-day capacity-building event on rice cultivation for sustainable food security, organized by the Department of Plant Science and Biotechnology in collaboration with AfricaRice Centre.

Prof. Abdul Rahman highlighted the need for knowledge sharing among rice farmers and urged experts to use simple language for effective communication. He also commended the University's Management for providing a platform for educating rice farmers on the latest trends in rice production.

The event featured presentations by experts, including Mr. Thomas Awio from AfricaRice Centre, who introduced "RiceAdvice Lite," a new technology aimed at transforming the food production system. Dr. Hauwa Ahmed Kana, Head of the Department of Plant Science and Biotechnology, expressed gratitude to partners and participants, including farmers from communities hosting FULafia.

Dignitaries, including Prof. Mathew Aremu, Dean of the Faculty of Science, and Prof. Emmanuel Kwon-Ndung, Director of the Centre for Energy Studies, delivered goodwill messages. The Nasarawa State Commissioner of Agriculture and Water Resources was represented by Shu'aibu Hajara Ibrahim.

The event aimed to enhance rice farmers' knowledge and skills in adopting innovative technologies for sustainable food security.