By Keke.
The Taraba State University, Jalingo, has reaffirmed its commitment to complementing the Taraba State Government’s efforts in promoting cocoa and other tree crop production.
This follows a strategic partnership between the institution and a United States–based organization, Agroforestry Impact Regeneration (AIR), aimed at improving soil health and expanding the frontiers of agroforestry in the state.
During a high-level interactive session held at the office of the Deputy Governor of Taraba State, a delegation of research experts from Taraba State University, led by the Vice Chancellor, Professor Sunday Bako, met with AIR’s principal, Mrs. Diana Doheny, and her team to deliberate on collaborative approaches to sustainable agricultural development.
The partnership, facilitated by the Taraba State Government, is designed to promote modern agroforestry and silvicultural practices that will not only revitalize the soil but also increase the yield and quality of tree crops such as cocoa and coffee two commodities with immense potential for boosting the state’s economy and empowering local farmers.
Speaking during the session, Professor Bako emphasized the university’s readiness to bring its wealth of research expertise to bear on the initiative.
He noted that as an institution of higher learning with a strong focus on research and innovation, Taraba State University is poised to drive the scientific and technical dimensions of the partnership, including soil analysis, climate adaptation studies, and farmer education.
> “Our goal is to use research to solve real-life challenges. By working hand-in-hand with Agroforestry Impact Regeneration, we can enhance sustainable cocoa production, restore degraded lands, and contribute meaningfully to the agricultural roadmap of Taraba State,” Prof. Bako said.
In her remarks, Mrs. Doheny of AIR commended the state government and Taraba State University for their forward-thinking approach to agricultural sustainability. She highlighted AIR’s global experience in regenerative agriculture and expressed optimism that the collaboration would serve as a model for integrating science-based solutions into rural farming systems.
> “Our focus is to regenerate the land while improving livelihoods. Taraba State possesses the right climate, soil, and human capacity to become a major player in cocoa and coffee production in West Africa,” she stated.
The Deputy Governor, who hosted the meeting on behalf of the state government, reaffirmed the administration’s unwavering support for initiatives that align with Governor Agbu Kefas’s vision of agricultural diversification and environmental resilience.
He expressed confidence that the partnership would open new opportunities for farmers, create jobs, and stimulate export revenue through value-added cocoa production.
This collaboration between Taraba State University and Agroforestry Impact Regeneration symbolizes a fusion of local expertise and global innovation a step that could transform Taraba into a hub for sustainable agroforestry in Nigeria.
As the world turns its attention toward climate-smart agriculture and ecological restoration, Taraba’s proactive approach through academia-government collaboration may well become a blueprint for other states seeking to balance environmental care with economic growth.
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