Exploring the Neglected Potential of Bamboo Cultivation and Utilization in Nigeria for Sustainable Development: An Overview
- December 15, 2019
- Posted by: RSIS
- Categories: Agriculture, IJRSI
International Journal of Research and Scientific Innovation (IJRSI) | Volume VI, Issue XI, November 2019 | ISSN 2321–2705
Rosulu, H.O., Balongun E.O., Hassan, T.I.*
Department of Agricultural Technology, Yaba College of Technology, Nigeria
Abstract- Among the most important minor forest products, bamboo has continued to gain recognition as a multipurpose plant and as a valuable timber substitute worldwide. As such, the exploration of its potential from the present state of underutilization in Nigeria will contribute meaningfully to the realization of agricultural sector as a way of diversifying the economy that could engender national development in sustainable engineering solution, energy, industrialization, employment prospects and food security. The paper explores specifically the potential of bamboo, provides information on its cultivation and made appropriate recommendations. The understanding of the potential of bamboo would not only help a large section of stakeholders but will also prove beneficial to policy makers, funding agencies, and Non-Governmental Organizations embarking on its cultivation and utilization.
Keywords: Bamboo Potential, Sustainable Engineering Solution, Energy and Industrialization.
I. INTRODUCTION
Prior to Nigeria’s political independence, agriculture was the mainstay of the economy. It account for 88% of the non-oil foreign exchange earnings, produce job for over 70% of the active labour force and contributes over 40% of the gross domestic product (GDP) (Iwala, 2007). However, with the discovery and exploitation of crude oil in the early 70’s,these shift the government attention from agricultural sector to industrial sector. Agriculture’s contribution to GDP started to decline rapidly from 65.7% in 1980’s. The aftermath of the relegation manifest itself in raging food prices, high food import bills, hunger, malnutrition and disease among others.
