The National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NBRDA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with One Hectare One Family (1H1F), a grassroots agricultural initiative, to promote agricultural biotechnology and support rural development in Nigeria.

The agreement, signed on Tuesday in Abuja, represents a strategic step towards harnessing biotechnology to drive sustainable farming, food security, innovation, and rural empowerment nationwide.

Under the collaboration, 1H1F will roll out its homestead farming scheme in Niger State, aiming to distribute one million high-quality banana seedlings to farmers in partnership with the state government. 

The initiative is designed to provide clean, disease-free planting materials, improve yields, and increase farmers’ incomes.

Speaking at the event, NBRDA’s Director General, Professor Abdullahi Mustapha, highlighted the importance of the partnership in tackling farmers’ challenges in accessing quality seedlings. 

He emphasised that biotechnology would help empower communities, boost agricultural productivity, and stimulate economic growth.

“Our collaboration will help meet the growing demand for high-quality banana seedlings while supporting farmers in their cultivation efforts,” Prof. Mustapha stated.

Chief Operating Officer of 1H1F, Onyaole Koku, described the agreement as a significant opportunity to offer farmers practical, science-backed solutions. 

“This collaboration will enable farmers to access clean, disease-free planting materials, resulting in improved yields, increased income, and improved food security,” he said.

As part of the MoU, 1H1F will upgrade NBRDA’s tissue culture laboratory, provide consumables, fund operational costs, and supply technical staff. In return, NBRDA will contribute scientific expertise, laboratory access, quality assurance, and joint research support. 

1H1F has also pledged further financial and material backing to strengthen NBRDA’s biotechnology research and development efforts.

Source: Tribune Online