By Gladys A. Ekpo-Ita
The Oil Palm Growers Association of Nigeria (OPGAN) and the National Palm Producers Association of Nigeria (NPPAN), Cross River State Chapter, have recently sought a partnership with the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC) Cross River State Office to enhance the palm sector in the state.
A meeting between the executive committees of OPGAN, NPPAN, and a team from RMRDC, led by Acting State Coordinator Mr. Obot A.E., along with Mrs. Gladys Ekpo-Ita and Miss Emem Ndatah, focused on establishing a strong working relationship and identifying potential areas for collaboration.
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The partnership is expected to yield benefits such as improved production and processing capacity, enhanced sustainability, and increased trade opportunities for palm products.
OPGAN executives expressed their readiness to collaborate with RMRDC on adding value to oil palm products, aligning with RMRDC’s emphasis on value addition, technology promotion, and innovation in raw materials. He observed that the palm sector has vast potential for growth and development, but faces challenges that require collaborative efforts to address.
Discussions centered around how RMRDC can support OPGAN’s activities and leverage its expertise and resources to drive innovation and competitiveness in the sector, particularly in value addition.
During the meeting, the Secretary of OPGAN proposed several areas for partnership, including:
Research and Development: Joint initiatives on research.
Capacity Building and Training: Programs to enhance skills.
Market Development and Access: Strategies to improve market reach.
Policy Advocacy: Joint efforts to influence favorable policies.
Sustainability Initiatives: Promoting sustainable practices in the sector.
The Cross-River State coordinator, Mr. Obot. E said that the Director General, RMRDC, Prof. Nnanyelugo M. Ike-Muonso is committed to supporting a partnership that has the potential to yield great results that will foster sustainable practices, improve productivity, and increase market share for Nigerian palm products.
The Chairman of OPGAN, Rev. Nyiam Bisong, expressed his satisfaction with the outcome of the meeting, emphasizing the potential for fruitful collaboration.
