The Nigerian Stored Products Research Institute (NSPRI) in Ilorin, Kwara State, has awarded a grant of N2 million to a dedicated corps member. Miss Zainab Adam, the recipient of the 2023 grant, was recognized for her innovative work in the smoked fish business, significantly contributing to the reduction of post-harvest losses.
The grant presentation took place during a training program titled “Skills Acquisition for Corps Members on Value Addition to Agricultural Commodities in Kwara State,” organized by Synergy Impact Consultants Limited.
The event also marked the commencement of a comprehensive five-day training for 50 selected corps members.
Professor Lateef Sanni, the Executive Director of NSPRI, emphasized the critical impact of post-harvest losses on the economy, noting that such losses have led to increased prices of agricultural commodities. He lamented the staggering 40–55% post-harvest losses in Nigeria, highlighting that this contributes to an annual global loss nearing $200 million, with Nigeria alone accounting for at least $5 billion.
Professor Sanni explained, “Why? Because the little we have cannot service over 230 million people. If we can reduce post-harvest losses even by 25%, no one would be saying that there are high prices for commodities. By doing this, everyone in all parts of the country will have intermediate products that could be stored for some days before processing.”
One innovative example highlighted was a participant who developed tomato paste sachets, illustrating the potential for homemade facilities to leverage abundant resources like tomatoes in the North to mitigate losses.
The Executive Director underscored the economic benefits of reducing post-harvest losses, stating, “Economically, this will lead to a reduction in income loss, allowing farmers, processors, loaders, and off-loaders to earn more money. This pertains to products that can be stored for months and transported over long distances.”
He added that addressing post-harvest losses would not only enhance income but also create employment opportunities, particularly for youth in peri-urban areas, facilitating storage and haulage activities.
Mrs. Oloruntoyosi Thomas, the State Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, praised NSPRI’s efforts in equipping corps members with valuable skills, stating that these initiatives would significantly enhance their future prospects and could revolutionize the agricultural sector in Nigeria.
Representing the NYSC state director, Onifade Joshua, Mrs. Omolabake Adeniyi, a scheme director, highlighted the rigorous selection process, with only 50 corps members chosen from a pool of 8,000, urging the beneficiaries to seize this unique opportunity for growth and innovation.
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