NSPRI Welcomes Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security
The atmosphere at the Nigerian Stored Products Research Institute (NSPRI) was one of anticipation and readiness as staff members gathered for an assembly before the much-awaited visit of the Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Dr. Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi. The Executive Director (ED) of NSPRI, Professor Sanni Oladimeji Lateef, took the opportunity to galvanize the team with a motivational speech that set a tone of resilience and aspiration for the year ahead.
The ED emphasized the importance of hard work and dedication, reminding everyone that the upcoming year was poised to be a busy one with numerous projects and initiatives on the horizon. His message was clear — each individual has the power to “rule their world” from their respective stations, a testament to the influence and contribution every staff member has within the institute.
Sharing personal insights, the ED disclosed his lifelong habit of rising early, a discipline he attributed to his success. He distilled his journey into three core principles that have been his guiding lights: being time conscious, maintaining happiness, and always relying on God. He expressed his desire to see all members of the institute grow, both professionally and personally, ensuring that no one would be hindered in their pursuit of excellence.
The staff’s preparation and eagerness were palpable as they welcomed the minister with a rendition of the national anthem, marking the official commencement of his visit. Dr. Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, in the company of the ED and the institute’s management team, then engaged in a closed-door session, likely discussing strategic directions and support mechanisms for NSPRI.
Upon concluding the board discussions, the minister returned to address the waiting staff members, who had eagerly anticipated his words. He commended their patience and went on to praise the institute’s products and technological advancements, acknowledging the critical role NSPRI plays in the agricultural sector. Dr. Abdullahi assured those present of his commitment to support the institute’s mission and to help drive it towards greater achievements.
In a significant announcement, the ED revealed plans for NSPRI to host the inaugural post-harvest congress in Abuja later in the year, a landmark event that will spotlight the institute’s leadership in post-harvest research and innovation. The congress is expected to draw experts, stakeholders, and policymakers from various sectors to collaborate and discuss strategies to minimize post-harvest losses, enhance food security, and promote sustainable agricultural practices.
The minister’s visit to NSPRI not only highlighted the institute’s vital contributions to the agricultural landscape but also served as an inspirational catalyst for the staff to brace for a year of impactful work. With the government’s assured support, the commitment of the institute’s leaders, and the dedication of its employees, NSPRI is poised to make significant strides in research and development that will benefit the nation’s food security and agricultural progress.
