Food Security: Search for indigenous soil microorganisms ongoing- Don
By Mosunmola Ayobami,Ilorin
A don from the Department of Agronomy in University of Ilorin, Professor Oluyemisi Fawole has disclosed that research on indigenous soil microorganisms for production of efficient bio-fertilizers for bountiful crop production continues.
Fawole made this disclosure at the 242nd Inaugural lecture tagged “Intimate Strangers in Soil And Agricultural Sustainability” held at the University auditorium.
She said in order to reduce hunger and food insecurity in Africa, there is need for considerable increase in crop production.
The Dean Faculty of Agriculture said though the use of inorganic fertilizers boosts food production, but that it would be at the cost of soil health because of persistent use of soil chemicals would result in soil degradation.
The female agricultural scientist noted that a gender balance would enhance development in agricultural research.
Fawole urged government to see soil and people as natural resource to be protected, maintained and enhanced, adding that afforestation should be encouraged in our communities for a healthy soil ecosystem.
The African Women in Agricultural Research and Development(AWARD) fellowship recipient, called for provision of world class equipment and facilities for study of soil microorganisms in Nigerian laboratories.
“Organic farming practices should be encouraged through the use of eco-friendly soil amendments to enhance soil fertility for improved crop productivity and soil health should be promoted while the use of eco-friendly pesticides for the protection of crop pests without damaging the soil and intimate strangers or unseen life in it should be encouraged” she said.
She also called for establishment of stock culture collection center and database for indigenous soil microorganisms in the faculty of agriculture, university of Ilorin.
Fawole added that the university could be generating income from production of organic fertilisers from composting of waste.
