Soil scientists urged to tackle persistent problem of soil degradation

Experts in soil science have been tasked to find a lasting solution to address the persistent problem of soil degradation to mitigate food shortages and enhance food security in the country. 

The vice-chancellor, Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, Professor Kabiru Bala, gave the task at the 46th Annual Conference organised by the Soil Society of Nigeria in Zaria. 

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Represented by Prof Mohammed Faguji Ishiyaku, the executive director, Institute for Agricultural Research (IAR), the vice-chancellor also called on the society to constantly be in touch with key stakeholders towards addressing emerging challenges on matters relating to soil management and utilisation. 

He observed that an annual programme was too little to engage members of the public if only the current challenges of soil productivity are to be addressed. 

“I, therefore, challenge you all to evolve new research innovation to come up with a lasting solution that will mitigate food shortage and enhance food security in the country,” he said. 

Prof Bala urged society to focus on critical issues that could help revive and upgrade the academic curriculum, especially in soil science education to furnish young soil scientists with new discoveries.

The vice-chancellor said that this year’s conference, with a theme, ‘Sustaining Living Soil Ecosystem: The Adoption of Soil Management Practices for Mitigating Climate Change for National Development’ was not only relevant but apt and timely.

He said the theme dwelt on the crisis bedevilling Nigeria and the ecosystem that is neighbouring the desert, such as the Sahel and dry Savannah vegetation.

Earlier, Prof. Bashiru Raji, the president of the society, said the event was aimed at raising awareness towards addressing the growing challenges in soil management and drawing attention of policy makers and key stakeholders towards improving soil health and enhance fight against soil salinisation.