Nigeria is embarking on a significant partnership with the UK-based Zander Corporation to revolutionize its agricultural practices and rehabilitate degraded lands, particularly in the ecologically vulnerable northern regions. This collaboration aims to combat desertification, enhance sustainable land use, and boost long-term agricultural productivity. Zander Corporation, specializing in afforestation technology, has donated £250,000 (N504 million) worth of its products to kickstart the initiative. This partnership underscores the Nigerian government’s recognition of the crucial role innovative technology plays in addressing environmental challenges and transforming the agricultural sector.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, during a meeting with Lord Raymond Benedict Asquith, the 3rd Earl of Oxford and leader of the Zander Corporation delegation, reiterated the government’s commitment to afforestation as a key strategy in tackling desertification. He emphasized the potential of this collaboration to bring cutting-edge technology to bear on Nigeria’s environmental and agricultural challenges. Shettima highlighted the importance of maximizing the impact of the initial five-hectare pilot project, suggesting diversification into high-demand vegetable and tree crops like cashew. He expressed confidence in the support of Sokoto, Borno, and Katsina states in embracing and implementing this initiative, recognizing the intertwined relationship between ecology and economy, especially in northern Nigeria.
Lord Oxford affirmed Zander Corporation’s dedication to Nigeria’s agricultural transformation, referencing the company’s 12-year presence in the country. He outlined the donation of Zander’s products for deployment across several northern states as a demonstration of their technology’s potential. Drawing on successful implementations in desert regions like Saudi Arabia, Morocco, Libya, and Southern Spain, Lord Oxford emphasized the proven effectiveness of their technology in reducing irrigation costs and establishing sustainable vegetation in arid environments. He expressed optimism about replicating these successes in Nigeria, given its vast land resources and the government’s commitment to the project.
The Zander Corporation’s technology focuses on enhancing soil health and water retention, crucial factors in combating desertification and improving agricultural productivity in arid and semi-arid regions. Their approach likely involves the application of specialized soil amendments that improve soil structure, increase water-holding capacity, and provide essential nutrients for plant growth. This could involve the use of polymers, biochar, or other innovative materials that enhance the soil’s ability to retain moisture and support healthy plant development, even in challenging environmental conditions. The reduced irrigation costs achieved through this technology are particularly relevant in water-scarce regions, promoting sustainable agriculture and reducing pressure on limited water resources.
Beyond the immediate environmental and agricultural benefits, this partnership holds the promise of broader economic and social impacts. Lord Oxford highlighted the potential for local manufacturing of Zander Corporation’s products in Nigeria. This localized production would not only reduce costs but also generate employment opportunities, contributing to economic growth and development. Furthermore, by restoring degraded lands and enhancing agricultural productivity, the initiative can improve food security and livelihoods in vulnerable communities, fostering greater economic stability and social well-being.
The National Agency for the Great Green Wall (NAGGW) is playing a crucial role in implementing this initiative. Saleh Abubakar, Director-General of NAGGW, confirmed the agency’s commitment to deploying Zander Corporation’s technology and its oversight of the project’s implementation. The pilot project, spanning Katsina, Borno, and Sokoto states, will serve as a testing ground for the technology’s effectiveness in the Nigerian context. The focus on ensuring direct benefits for communities affected by desertification underscores the project’s social dimension and its aim to improve the lives of those most vulnerable to environmental degradation. The involvement of various stakeholders, including state governments and presidential advisors, indicates a coordinated and collaborative approach to address desertification and promote sustainable agriculture in Nigeria.
