Experts Advocate for Indigenous Crops in Nigeria's Agriculture

At a two-day summit held at Michael Okpara University of Agriculture in Umudike, Abia State, experts called for renewed attention to indigenous crops to bolster climate-resilient agriculture in Nigeria. Co-convened by Dr. Carol Ib from the University of Cambridge and Prof. Olayinka Nwachukwu, the event aimed to bridge the gap between scientific research and farming practices.

Vice Chancellor Prof. Ursula Ngozi Akanwa reiterated the university's commitment to advancing research in sustainable food systems. The summit featured a keynote address by Prof. Sylvest N.

Ib, who discussed the growing threats of climate change to food systems. Dr. Kingsley C.

Uzoma outlined federal initiatives to promote climate resilience in agriculture. The importance of revitalizing indigenous crops, such as akidi and bambara bean, was emphasized by Dr. Carol Ib, who expressed concern over the decline of traditional African crops.

The project aims to strengthen agricultural resilience through innovative research partnerships and improved farming practices.