The Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, has approved N355.31m for the construction of an administrative and laboratory complex, as well as staff accommodation, for the Nigerian Institute for Oil Palm Research outstation at Creek Town, Odukpani Local Government Area of the state
The project is aimed at strengthening agricultural research, scientific innovation and technology transfer while supporting the development of Cross River’s oil palm industry and other agricultural value chains.
The approval was granted during the State Executive Council meeting following consideration of a memorandum presented by the Commissioner for Agriculture and Irrigation Development, Johnson Ebokpo.
Otu said the investment was part of his administration’s efforts to transform agriculture from subsistence farming into a modern, technology-driven sector capable of creating jobs, generating wealth and improving food security.
The governor stressed that sustainable agricultural development required deliberate investment in research institutions and scientific infrastructure to support farmers and agribusinesses.
He said, “Cross River cannot fully realise its agricultural potential without investing in the science, technology and infrastructure that drive modern agriculture.”
According to him, the NIFOR facility would provide a platform for research into improved and climate-resilient oil palm varieties, disease management, specialised nursery development and modern farming practices to increase productivity.
The project is also expected to strengthen collaboration among research institutions, universities, development partners and private agribusinesses in areas including mechanisation, climate-smart agriculture and disease control.
The state government said the facility would support the production and distribution of certified, high-quality oil palm seedlings while providing technical assistance to farmers and commercial investors.
The project is expected to encourage greater private-sector investment in oil palm plantations and agro-processing by improving access to scientific expertise and reducing some of the risks associated with agricultural investment.
Otu added that the project would have a youth and employment component through agricultural extension, vocational training and youth agripreneurship opportunities.
“Our objective is not simply to construct another government facility. We are building an institution that will generate knowledge, support farmers, attract investors and create opportunities for our young people,” the governor said.
The government said the project would further strengthen Cross River’s position as an agricultural investment destination in the South-South, while boosting the state’s oil palm value chain, food security and employment opportunities.