Nigerian University VC Advocates For Mushroom Production To Boost Economy

News in brief: The VC of the University of Jos promotes mushroom cultivation for economic development in Nigeria, emphasizing its potential for income and job opportunities.

University of Jos (UNIJOS) Vice-Chancellor Professor Tanko Ishaya has advocated for mushroom cultivation and commercialisation as a way to boost the agricultural sector in Nigeria and develop its economy.

Highlighting the potential of mushrooms, the VC noted that they offer a sustainable source of income and job opportunities due to their nutritional value.

The VC's signed statement was publicised by a local news outlet and was delivered in his place by the school's Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration) Professor Joash Amupitan (SAN) during the opening ceremony of a five-day workshop on mushroom cultivation by its African Centre of Excellence in Phytomedicine Research and Development (ACEPRD). Themed "Mushroom cultivation and commercialization: Hands-on", the workshop was held at the Mushroom Training School Farm.

The training aimed to equip participants with the knowledge and practical skills needed to harness the untapped potential of mushrooms, given their value.

Furthermore, Amupitan said that the cultivating and commercialising mushrooms can significantly lead to sustainability in the nation's agricultural sector.

He described mushrooms as the 'diamonds of the kitchen' for their culinary delight and medicinal properties.

Also, he added that mushroom production offers a sustainable source of income through the job opportunities it provides. He said that it explains why the institution is striving to equip citizens with the knowledge and practical skills needed to harness the untapped potentials in mushroom cultivation.