A one-day Green Field Day on Alfalfa Adaptability and Performance Trials, held at Plateau State University (PLASU), has concluded on a positive note.
The alfalfa project, sponsored by Alternative Bank, aims to create wealth and generate income for households through the production of the highly nutritious forage,Known as the "queen of forage," alfalfa which is high in crude protein and is easily digestible for cattle, sheep, goats, and other ruminants is also great in it's ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen improves soil fertility, which helps reduce pressure on natural grazing lands.
In his keynote address on the theme "Forage Innovation and Sustainable Livestock Development in Plateau State," the Vice-Chancellor of Plateau State University, Professor Shadrack Best, stated: "We are not simply observing crops,we are witnessing a future of sustainable agriculture. Alfalfa is more than just a forage,it is the cornerstone of healthy soil, a natural nitrogen fixer, and a key to reducing environmental degradation."
Represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Administration, Associate Professor Keziah Ayuba, Professor Best added, "The work we do here in the Faculty of Agriculture at Plateau State University, Bokkos, is a research effort that we will share to everyone here today. These technicalities are all part of a larger global effort to feed a growing population while preserving our most precious resource,the land. Let's use this day to learn from each other, celebrate the success of the alfalfa research here on the Plateau, and commit to a future where our farms are not just productive but truly regenerative for the growth of Plateau State and Nigeria as a whole."
On his part, Plateau State Commissioner for Livestock Development, Veterinary Services, and Fisheries, Dr. Sunday Akpa, said: "With alfalfa, the time has come and the opportunities are so great. People can go into forage production by growing alfalfa and making money." He added that Plateau State would soon have people earning a living from forage production, as one doesn't need to own cattle to engage in the business.
In her remarks, the Head of Agri-Finance at Alternative Bank, Ugonwa Ikegwuonu, spoke about the mix of preparation, inspiration, and presentation involved in the project. Recalling the initial challenges and obstacles, she wondered if the effort was worth the pain. However, she noted that "today, Plateau State University, Bokkos, has displayed exceptional zeal in the success of the alfalfa project." She described the outcomes as an "unexpected success story" and expressed gratitude for the show of support and solidarity from the entire management team of the Plateau State Ministry of Livestock Development, Veterinary Services, and Fisheries, led by the Commissioner, Dr. Sunday Akpa. She concluded that this gesture showed that "as a people, as a nation, they have really put money where their mouth is."
The event drew critical stakeholders, including traditional rulers, farmers, and representatives of Fulani herders and other agricultural projects from both federal and state levels. The day concluded with a field visit to the alfalfa farm.
