A University don at the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU), Prof. Uma Kalu Oke, has stressed that Nigeria and the world can overcome the growing protein crisis by maximizing the potential of indigenous animal species.
Delivering his inaugural lecture titled “Seed Boogie and Products of Animal Origin: A Panacea for Quality Protein Crisis,” Prof. Oke said the focus of his research is to explore how local species can be improved to boost animal-origin protein production. He explained that enhancing these indigenous breeds could provide sustainable, affordable, and accessible protein sources for the population.
The professor called for stronger collaboration among farmers, researchers, universities, and the government to achieve this goal. He also commended President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu for establishing the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, urging that the National Animal Production Research Institute (NAPRI) be unbundled into species-based research institutes for greater efficiency.
Sharing her joy after the successful lecture, the Permanent Secretary of the Abia State Ministry of Health, Dr. Ifeyinwa Uma Kalu who is also the lecturer’s wife thanked God for the achievement, noting that preparations had been ongoing since March.
