Bayero University, Kano (BUK) is hosting the 49th Annual Conference of the Soil Science Society of Nigeria (SSSN) with the theme “Promoting Soil Health and Resilience Through Research and Innovation for Sustainable Development”.
The five-day gathering, co-hosted by the university’s Faculty of Agriculture and the Centre for Dryland Agriculture (CDA), brings together experts to address pressing issues in soil science.
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Declaring the congregation open,the Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Senator Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to revitalizing the agricultural sector through science and strategic partnerships.
He emphasized that soil health is not just a scientific concern but a national imperative—central to food security, economic stability, and sustainable development.
Senator ALIYU warned that Nigeria’s soils are under significant stress due to erosion, deforestation, unsustainable land practices, and climate-related challenges, all of which threaten the country’s ability to feed its growing population.
The minister pledged to work closely with Bayero University, including the CDA and Faculty of Agriculture, positioning the university as a strategic partner in driving the scheme’s rollout.
“We see immense value in leveraging BUK’s expertise to empower farmers and protect Nigeria’s most valuable natural asset — its soil,”
In his welcome address, the vice-Chancellor BUK, Professor Sagir Adamu Abbas, described the conference as a gathering of minds committed to reshaping the future of agriculture in Nigeria.
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He noted the theme of the conference was timely,saying that it will pave way in addressing urgent global concerns about soil degradation, food insecurity, and the impacts of climate change on agricultural systems.
President of the Soil Science Society of Nigeria, Professor Jibrin Mohammed Jibrin, commended the role of research and innovation in restoring soil health and appreciated the government’s growing support.
He also acknowledged contributions from key industry partners like OCP Africa, Soil Values, and Exchange Africa, noting their role in bridging research and real-world agricultural practice.
Professor Jibrin further highlighted the SSSN’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of scientists through initiatives like the Soil Talk Lecture Series and its continued sponsorship of young soil researchers at national conferences. “We are building not just knowledge, but a legacy,”
The conference also featured two lead paper presentations by the Vice-Chancellor Federal University of Agriculture Mubi Professor B.D Tarfa, and the former President of the African Soil Science Society (ASSS), Cameroon
Mubi, Dr. Martin Yemefack.