A Corporate Social Investment (CSI) initiative has been launched to explore the feasibility of Alfalfa farming in Nigeria, a move that could profoundly impact the nation’s livestock value chain. 

This initiative seeks to expand research on the feasibility of Alfalfa farming, a crucial livestock feed that could transform Nigeria’s livestock value chain.

Alternative Bank has transferred the Alfalfa Cultivation Project to Plateau State University (PLASU) to further agricultural research and sustainability in Nigeria.

Initially piloted in partnership with sector experts and PLASU, the project provides critical insights into optimising local Alfalfa cultivation for scalable impact.

With this handover, PLASU will spearhead further research and development, while engaging the Plateau State government to explore widespread implementation.

The bank will continue to provide funding and strategic support to ensure long-term success.

Speaking on the initiative’s significance, the Group Head, Structured Trade and Commodities Finance, Mr. Gbenga Awe, said, “This partnership is not just about cultivating Alfalfa. It’s about building a sustainable ecosystem.” 

He added that the bank had invested in key infrastructure to ensure the project’s success, highlighting the University’s ambitious target of 10 tons per hectare in Alfalfa yield.

Echoing this sentiment, the university’s Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Shedrack Gaya Best, highlighted the milestone in the University’s legacy of agricultural development. 

“This is a great day for us. Bokkos has a rich history in livestock, and this project reinforces our commitment to innovation and impact.”

Representing the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, Special Adviser on Knowledge Management and Communication, Richard Mark Mbaram, called the initiative a model for national replication. 

“This project reflects the vision of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to grow the livestock sector’s GDP and place youth and women at the centre of growth,” Mbaram noted.

The bank’s Head of Corporate Social Investment, Solomon Okonkwo, highlighted the bank’s enduring commitment to making a difference, stating, “Our mission extends beyond traditional banking; we aim to create significant impact by strategically investing in key areas.”

Source: The Guardian 

Image Credit: Facebook