Vice chancellor of Plateau State University Bokkos, Prof Shadrack Best, has stated that the aims of Alfalfa project are to create wealth and generate income for households through the production of highly nutritious forage, known as the queen of forage which is high in crude protein and easily digestible for cattle, sheep, goats and other ruminant animals .
Best made the disclosure in a keynote address on the theme; “Forage Innovation and Sustainable Livestock Development in Plateau State” at a one-day Green Field Day on Alfalfa Adaptability and Performance Trials, held at Plateau State University (PLASU) BokkosL
According to him, “We are witnessing a future of sustainable agriculture. Alfalfa is more than just a forage,it is the cornerstone of healthy soil, a natural nitrogen fixer, and a key to reducing environmental degradation.”
The vice chancellor who was represented by the deputy vice-chancellor Administration, Associate Professor Keziah Ayuba said the work they do in the Faculty of Agriculture at Plateau State University, Bokkos, is a research effort that will be shared stressing that these technicalities are all part of a larger global effort to feed a growing population while preserving the most precious resource which is land.
“Let’s use this day to learn from each other, celebrate the success of the alfalfa research here on the Plateau, and commit to a future where our farms are not just productive but truly regenerative for the growth of Plateau State and Nigeria as a whole,” he said.
On his part, Plateau State Commissioner for Livestock Development, Veterinary Services, and Fisheries, Dr. Sunday Akpa, said with alfalfa, the time has come and the opportunities are so great that people can go into forage production by growing alfalfa and making money.
He added that Plateau State would soon have people earning a living from forage production, as one doesn’t need to own cattle to engage in the business.
In her remarks, the Head of Agri-Finance at Alternative Bank, Ugonwa Ikegwuonu, noted that Plateau State University, Bokkos, has displayed exceptional zeal in the success of the alfalfa project.
She described the outcomes as an “unexpected success story” and expressed gratitude for the show of support and solidarity from the entire management team of the Plateau State Ministry of Livestock Development, Veterinary Services, and Fisheries, led by the Commissioner, Dr. Sunday Akpa.
Earlier, in his remarks, the Dean Faculty of Agriculture and team lead researcher Associate Professor Hosea Finangwai gave a background and justification of the alfalfa project to include findings, adaptability trials, its growth and biomass production.
He maintained that its socio-economic potential includes mitigating herder-farmer’ conflicts by providing alternative feed resources within a small piece of land as well as offering great opportunities for commercial hay production, opening feed markets and job creation for women and youths.
