A Professor of Soil Microbiology, Oluwatoyin Babalola, has harped on the need for critical stakeholders to make deliberate and determined efforts to protect soil microbes.
She said this will help maximise their positive impacts on soil fertility, food production and security.
Prof. Babalola who is of the Department of Soil Science and Land Management (SSLM), College of Plant Science and Crop Production (COLPLANT) of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), described microorganisms as nature’s gift to mankind, which must be protected and preserved for sustainable agricultural productivity.
These formed parts of her submissions and recommendations on Wednesday, February 21, ‘while delivering the 86th Inaugural Lecture of the FUNAAB titled “Soil Microbes: Nature’s Workforce For Soil Quality Maintenance, And Sustenance Of Environmental Integrity.”
She stressed the importance of soil microorganisms as nature’s gift to mankind for sustainable agricultural productivity.
She also emphasised the imperative of assessing the repercussions of climate change and human activities on soil microorganisms, advocating concerted efforts to protect these invaluable agents for maintaining soil quality and environmental balance.
The distinguished lecturer called for governmental support for organic farming practices, which enhances soil health, ecosystem services, food safety, and environmental integrity, even as he recommended that agricultural policies should be prioritised in the country on the sound management of soil organic matter.
The Inaugural Lecturer reckoned that if government followed the advice, it would engender an environment for essential macro and micronutrients for optimal crop growth, development, and yield.
Besides, she advocated for the need to strengthen both basic and applied research, alongside extension activities, to translate scientific discoveries into practical solutions accessible to farmers.
Prof. Babalola also harped on the importance of robust collaboration between researchers and agricultural extension services to ensure effective dissemination of knowledge and technologies.
Earlier, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde welcomed everyone saying that the Inaugural Lecture was the 18th in the College and third in the Department of Soil Science and Land Management.
