Kano seeks FG support for pilot NEEM fertilizer processing plant

The Kano state government has solicited Federal Government’s support towards successful implementation of the pilot NEEM fertilizer processing plant in the state.

A step towards boosting the gross domestic product (GDP) of Nigeria through science, technology and innovation.

Bilikisu Waziri, Chairperson, Action committee for the establishment of NEEM fertilizer processing plant in Kano state, gave the charge during an interactive session with Ogbonnaya Onu, Minister of Science and Technology, in Abuja on Monday.

Waziri who doubles as permanent secretary, Kano State Ministry of Education, Science, Technology and Innovation, explained that the visit was aimed at soliciting the Minister’s blessing, advice and assistance in the actualization of a pilot NEEM fertilizer processing plant in Kano state in recognition of his past track record.

Highlighting the achievements of Kano State government in science, technology and innovation through collaborations with the federal ministry of science and technology agencies such as NABDA, NILEST and NACETEM.

She noted that the Kano state government is ever ready to provide an enabling environment for more collaborations, cooperation and assistance with the ministry and it’s agencies.

Responding, Ogbonnaya Onu, Minister of Science and Technology, reiterated the readiness of Federal Government to partner with Kano state government in the production of NEEM fertilizer and other applications necessary to enhance agricultural production for the purpose of food security and export.

Onu called on Kano state government for the creation of an independent Ministry of Science and Technology to help with the facliltation of science, technology and innovation to help move Nigeria from a resource based to a knowledge based innovative driven economy.

Commending Kano state government for its inward look towards food sustenance, he pledged the Ministry’s resolve to support the initiative.

“The Buhari administration is on its way to repostion the country to be able to feed itself and this effort by Kano state is very important, as fertilizer would assist yield,” he said.

 

OYIN AMINU, Abuja