Researchers see economic potential in kola plants
Nigerian researchers explored the economic potential of kola plants for a circular economy and poverty alleviation at a recent nanotechnology conference. The event, organized by LAUTECH Nanotechnology Research Group (NANO+) and PANAFSTRAG, emphasized Kola’s role in sustainable economic models and poverty reduction strategies. The communiqué stressed responsible research promotion and multidisciplinary efforts to breed new high-yielding kola varieties. It urged leveraging AI, bioinformatics, and nanotechnology for enhanced productivity and utilization of kola plants. The conference advocated for establishing herbal medicine programs in Nigerian universities to extract more value from kola plants. Agbaje Lateef highlighted Nigeria’s significant kolanut production share but noted the need for increased economic benefits. Ishola Williams urged research activities in tertiary institutions for public benefit, while Omotoye Olorode discussed kola nut’s origins, cultivation, and diverse uses, advocating for further research to develop new high-yielding varieties and expand commercial applications for sustainable development. Source- BusinessDay
Our Review:
The recent conference on kola plants, organized by the LAUTECH Nanotechnology Research Group (NANO+) and PANAFSTRAG, highlighted kola’s potential for economic growth and poverty alleviation in Nigeria. Researchers emphasized the importance of integrating kola into sustainable economic models, calling for responsible research and promotion. By leveraging AI, bioinformatics, and nanotechnology, the productivity and utilization of kola plants can be significantly enhanced. Establishing herbal medicine programs in Nigerian universities was also advocated to maximize the value extracted from kola plants. Agbaje Lateef underscored Nigeria’s substantial kolanut production but stressed the need for greater economic benefits. Ishola Williams called for increased research in tertiary institutions for the public good, and Omotoye Olorode highlighted the diverse uses and historical significance of kola nuts, urging further development of high-yielding varieties and expanded commercial applications. These initiatives can drive informed decisions, foster growth, and enhance food security across the entire value chain.
