FG Eyes Bamboo Production to Boost Economy

By Modupe Gbadeyanka

The Federal Ministry of Environment has said that it will continue to partner with the private sector and other spirited organizations in the development and utilization of bamboo for the diversification and growth of the economy in the country.

Acting Director of Forestry in the Federal Ministry of Environment, Mr Osakuade Tolu Michael, who represented the Permanent Secretary, said this at a scoping mission by International Network for Bamboo and Rattan (INBAR) on implementation of institutional Agreement between Nigeria and INBAR organized by the Forestry Department at the ministry’s conference hall Mabushi, Abuja.

He stated that bamboo production and management has enhanced the economic growth of many nations and this will contribute immensely to Nigeria’s ecosystem, National economic and creation of employment.

He also said that the workshop is expected to develop a national strategy/roadmap which will lead to strong coordinated multi-sector action that will guide ministries, private sector, research institutes and civil society organizations in Bamboo production and utilization.

Mr Osakuade Tolu further pointed out that the workshop will equally provide capacity development as well as training programme aimed at addressing current gaps in local policy development, knowledge and skills required to develop industrial value chains.

The Acting Director noted that Nigeria became a member of INBAR in 2004 adding that the National Council on Environment approved the constitution and inauguration of the Nigeria Bamboo and Rattan Development Programme (NBARDEP).

According to Mr Osakuade Tolu, “The Federal Ministry of Environment signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to collaborate with INBAR through a new institutional agreement partnership in 2016”.

The Director identified some of the constraints in the development of Bamboo and rattan in the country as lack of government policy and legislation, coordination of local and national administrative levels as well as poor funding.

The workshop was attended by the representatives of United Nations Industrial development Organization (UNIDO), Private sectors, Artisans and other non-governmental organizations.