Rubber Industry stakeholders in Nigeria are earnestly expecting the Federal Government and the South-West governors to support the promotion of rubber cultivation in order to further boost the Nigerian economy.
The stakeholders under the umbrella of the National Rubber Producers Processors and Marketers Association of Nigeria (NARPPMAN) made the call during the fifth Odua International Trade Fair, in Ibadan, Oyo State.
The Vice-President of NARPPMAN, South-West zone, Evangelist Oluwatoyin Jeremiah, at implored the Federal Government, most especially South-West governors, to prioritise plantation and production of rubber in order to boost the country’s economy.
He said: “Rubber is an integral part of the world’s economy; any country that does not recognise rubber as very important would depend on the importation of rubber products, which could affect the economy of such a nation.
There is no crop that is as valuable as rubber; rubber production is capable of providing jobs for many unemployed Nigerians if properly harnessed.”
He advised the governments to implement the right policies and give appropriate recognition to rubber.
He submitted that financial institutions must collaborate with the Federal Government in giving financial assistance to rubber farmers.