By; BAYO AKAMO, Ibadan
The Nigeria Institute of Soil Science (NISS), is determined to protect soil as a way of improving productivity across Nigeria.
This was expressed by the South West Coordinator of the institute, Professor James Adediran on Wednesday while speaking during the opening of a two day zonal workshop of NISS held at Institute of Agricultural Research and Training (IAR&T) Ibadan.
According to the SW Coordinator , NISSI among others was charged with the mandate of regulating the profession of Soil Science in Nigeria, and that to achieve this the institute was ready to provide scientific basis for enhancing and sustaining productivity of soil resources with minimal environmental degradation
“NISS is an agency under the FMARD with its ACT enacted into law on 3rd February, 2017. The Institute is charged with the mandate of regulating the profession of Soil Science in Nigeria”, he said.
The NISSI SW Coordinator added, ” as well as providing a scientific basis for enhancing and sustaining productivity of soil resources with minimal environmental degradation, especially with regards to food production in the country”.
“NISS has been empowered to establish and promote soil and fertilizer testing facilities to support farmers on efficient use of fertilizer and provide strategies for sustainable soil management”.
Professor Adediran stated that the institute is also to ” conduct research on the physical, chemical and biological processes involved in the efficient management of nutrients and water. Identify improved methods and technologies involved in efficient soil management.
Speaking further, the NISSI SW Coordinator stressed that other roles included ” exchange and disseminate information on agricultural technologies as well as collaborate with Universities of Agriculture and research organizations within and outside the country. Develop and maintain a database on Soil Science.Engage in signing several Memoranda of Agreement for cooperation in soil technology dissemination with a number of corporate national and internal organizations.”
Professor Adediran stated ” in 2019, NISS has made a giant stride to draw A 5 Year Action Plan for the management and protection of soil resources in Nigeria which is in operation till today.”
The Executive Director of IAR&T, Professor Veronica Obatolu while declaring the workshop open urged participants to make meaningful contribution towards enhancing farm productivity in Nigeria
Represented by Deputy Director of the institute, Dr. Olaide Saka, Prof Obatolu said hosting the workshop at the institute was part of its contributions at improving soil fertility in the country.
