The Director General of Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC), Professor Hussaini Doko Ibrahim has called on all stakeholders in shea production and development to focus on research and development in creating a sustainable shea sector for industrialization in the country.
Ibrahim stated this during a working visit by the National President, National Shea Products Association of Nigeria (NASPAN) and his team on Thursday in Abuja.
Emphasising on the need for solid foundation for shea production and processing in Nigeria, the RMRDC DG stated that the Council would work with relevant stakeholders to establish a pilot shea processing centre in Minna, Niger state.
He also indicated the need for more funding for R&D efforts to develop improved varieties of shea trees, capable of producing higher yields with reduced gestation period to replace the ageing shea trees.
While noting that the shea nut trees has been around, produced and sold by rural women in West African countries, the RMRDC boss revealed that the Shea butter from processed Shea nuts are an ideal substitutes for cocoa butter in the production of chocolates and other confectioneries.
The RMRDC head therefore called for a more dedicated structure for the value chain as a source of revenue generating industrial input.
He further said the pre- to post-commodity is capable of providing succour for both the industrial sector and the livelihood of the rural populace if properly harnessed.
Earlier, the National President NASPAN, Mr. Mohammed Ahmed, identified RMRDC as the engine room for industrial development.
“The establishment of a standard common facility for Shea processing in the rural area will reduce drudgery often associated with Shea processing in country. And ultimately improve the quality of the Shea products,” he added.
