The Vice Chancellor, Ebonyi State University, Prof. Chigozie Ogbu, has implored Nigerian farmers to promote organic agriculture, to have safer food for healthy living.
Ogbu, represented by Prof. Francis Egwu, Dean, Faculty of Agriculture of the university, gave the advice during the inauguration of the Association of Organic Agriculture Practitioners of Nigeria (NOAN), Ebonyi Chapter, on Wednesday in Abakaliki.
Ogbu, erstwhile Deputy Governor of Ebonyi, expressed concern over the abuse of chemicals such as fertilizer on crops and urged famers to always study the soil properly and embrace organic farming.
“I assured NOAN that our school will continue to support the initiative of the organic agriculture in Ebonyi with good ideas to protect the environment.
“Ebonyi State University has introduced the eco-friendly initiative as part of efforts to promote organic farming and sustainable agriculture,” he stated.
Prof Nkeiru Meludu, National Vice Chairperson of NOAN, South East, said in her keynote address that organic agriculture was a production system that sustained the health of soils, ecosystems and the people.
Meludu, Dean, Faculty of Agriculture, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, noted that organic agriculture relied on ecological processes, biodiversity and cycles adapted to local conditions, rather than the use of inputs with adverse effects.
“It entails the use of cover crops, green manures, animal manures and crop rotations to fertilize the soil, maximize biological activity and maintain long-term soil health.
“This method will go a long way in achieving sustainable agriculture in the country. We must follow the value chain, from the selection of the seeds to the harvest and consumption stage.
“We must remember that we are what we eat and what you eat tells about your health,` she advised.
Mr. Taiwo Oduola, NOAN National Public Relations Officer, said it was pertinent to protect our food, the earth and embrace organic agriculture.
Mr. Ezekiel Igboji, the new State Coordinator of the NOAN, noted members were prepared to discourage the use of chemicals in farming in Ebonyi. (NAN)
