Horticultural Society of Nigeria’s 42nd annual conference begins in ABU today
The 42nd annual conference of the Horticultural Society of Nigeria (HORTSON) begins at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria today (Monday, 11th November, 2024).
The conference with the theme; “Strategic Roles of Research, Innovation and Extension in Strengthening National Horticulture Technology for Sustainable Food Production”, took place at the Division of Agricultural Colleges, (DAC), Ahmadu Bello University, Samaru, Zaria.
Speaking at the occasion, Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Kabiru Bala, reiterated that the field of agriculture is one of the major strength of the University.
Represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic, Prof. Raymond Bako, the Vice-Chancellor expressed delight over comments made by participants on the heritage of agriculture in the University.
Prof. Bala enjoined the horticultural society to come up with papers that will stimulate discussions and proffer solutions to the agricultural problems facing the country.
The Vice-Chancellor wished all participants a fruitful deliberations and a happy stay in the University.
Earlier in a welcome address, the Director, Division of Agricultural Colleges, Prof. Bashir A. Babaji, stated that the choice of the Samaru College of Agriculture for the 42nd Annual Conference is an honor not only to the College, but also to the Division and Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria as a whole.
The Director described horticulture as one of the largest areas within the crop-based component of agriculture and hosts the largest number of crop species ranging from fruits, vegetables and ornamental.
He said within these groups are the medicinal, aromatic, herbaceous, spices, beverages, etc, which play key roles in providing mankind and animals with food and feeds, medicine, fibre and shelter.
The Director noted that the theme of the conference came at the right time, considering the national and global food crisis being experienced world-wide, which is due to inflation in the costs commodities, caused by high cost of Agric inputs, climate change and inconsistent government policies.
Prof. Babaji emphasized on the challenges posed by climate change on the environment and agriculture, which is threatening to the basic existence of mankind.
He prayed for a fruitful solutions, as they converge to deliberate on issues affecting horticultural productivity in the country.
In a remark, the President-in-Council (PIC) of HORTSON, Prof. Rotimi Ipinmiroti, appreciated the Vice-Chancellor and the University Management for accepting to host the Conference.
Prof. Rotimi described ABU as the mother of all agricultural researches in the country, being the only institution in Nigeria that has everything that concerns agriculture.
The PIC maintained that horticultural plants remain the surest solutions to poverty, considering the harsh economic situation.
He lamented on the insecurity in the country, which is greatly affecting farming activities.
Prof. Rotimi appealed to members to patronize the society’s journal and make monetary and scholarly submissions, stressing that they can be easily accessed online.
Featured at the event was the conferment of HORTSON fellowship award on the Vice-Chancellor and some distinguished members of the society.
The event was attended by Directors, Deans and Heads of Departments within the institution’s agricultural complex and the representative of the Emir of Zazzau, among many others.
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Public Affairs Directorate,
Office of the Vice-Chancellor,
Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.
(AHW).
Monday, 11th November, 2024.
