Ade Olu
A UK-based bamboo revolution enthusiast, Fortunate Fapounda, wants young Nigerians to key into efforts to transform the bamboo and rattan industry in Nigeria.
This will ensure that the revolutionary intervention of the Sahelian Institute for Bamboo Research and Entrepreneurship Development (SIBRED) Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka are successful.
Fapounda made the call in a goodwill message during a one-day hybrid roundtable on sustainable food systems organized by SIBRED in Awka, Anambra State.
The event was cohosted by Climate Smart Agriculture Youth Network Global, (GCSAYN).
Fapounda noted, “Few years after this evolutionary effort took off, like-minded people and groups are coming on board to make something happen.
“The youths have been involved in the process. We could be vision carriers, but the vision is for the young ones to sustain.
“You need to dispense your doubt about this effort because we’ve got no choice. This is the way forward”.
Bring the dream to fruition
The UK-based Nigerian noted that Nigeria is blessed with natural resources which are yet largely untapped.
He called on Nigerians especially the youths to work towards the realization of the dream of a giant nation.
“Yes, we need the government, but the youths must make the most of what’s in their hands. Together, we can make something happen.
“This is a powerful gathering. With the right mindset, we can change the world, not just Nigeria”.
“As we move towards the dream, we will take our children and children’s children with along with is in our actions”.
Speaking on the theme of the dialogue “sustainable food systems”, Fapounda spurred participants to be experimental and push on.
“Use the land you got from parents or friends. Grow what you eat to beat food insecurity. It will work.
“If not, Diana and others from US, Germany, India, and over Africa and the world wouldn’t be involved. Keep pushing this,” Fapounda encouraged.
