* Says ‘You Cannot Criminalize the Opposition’
By Mashe Umaru Gwamna
The National Agency for the Great Green Wall (NAGGW) and National Sunflower Growers, Processors and Marketers Association of Nigeria (NASGPMAN) are partnering to promote sunflower cultivation across dry regions in Nigeria which has over 50 economic values.
NAGGW said this strategic step was taken for the domestication and promotion of sunflower cultivation across Nigeria’s dryland regions.
A delegation from the Management Team of the Agency, led by the Director General/CEO, Saleh Abubakar, who was represented by the Director, Rural Development and Extension Services, Hajia Habiba Ibrahim Usman Lau, paid a working visit to sunflower demonstration site in Gumau community, Toro Local Government Area, Bauchi State.
During the visit, the team inspected the progress of sunflower cultivation and engaged with key stakeholders to explore areas of collaboration that align with the Agency’s afforestation, livelihood improvement, and sustainable land management goals.
In his remarks, National President of the National Sunflower Growers, Processors and Marketers Association of Nigeria (NASGPMAN), Jibrin K. Bukar, highlighted the immense economic potential of sunflower, noting that its oil is among the best in the world. He further emphasized that sunflower is not only valuable for oil production but also plays a vital role in the food, cosmetics, pharmaceutical industries and poultry feeds.
According to him, “Sunflower has over 50 economic values from its oil to its leaves and seeds. The plant has a short gestation period of about three months, with a minimum maturity of 72 days, making it one of the most viable crops for farmers seeking quick and sustainable returns.”
The NAGGW’s initiative to promote sunflower cultivation forms part of its broader mandate to combat desertification, enhance rural livelihoods, and boost agricultural productivity through innovative and climate-smart solutions.
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