The Soil Science Society of Nigeria (SSSN) has announced plans to award the Governor of Borno State, Prof. Babagana Zulum, and the Minister of Agriculture, Sen. Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, with membership honors at its upcoming annual conference in Kano.

Scheduled for Tuesday at the Bayero University New Site, the event will celebrate the outstanding contributions of both leaders to the advancement of soil science and agriculture in Nigeria.

Gov. Zulum is being recognized for his leadership in promoting agricultural initiatives, particularly in Borno State, while Sen. Sabi Abdullahi is being acknowledged for his national efforts to enhance soil management and promote sustainable farming practices.

Prof. Jibril Mohammad, President of the SSSN, made the announcement during a news conference on Monday in Kano.

This year’s conference holds special significance, marking the first time in 47 years that the SSSN’s annual conference will be hosted in Kano. Prof. Mohammad emphasized that the conference aims to explore strategies to improve soil science practices to enhance crop yields and reduce agricultural losses.

With the theme “Promoting Soil Health and Resilience Through Research and Innovation for Sustainable Development,” the conference seeks to advance soil science and improve food security across Nigeria.

“This conference will focus on developing strategies that contribute to sustainable agricultural growth by promoting better soil management practices,” he said.

Prof. Mohammad, who also serves as the Director of the Centre for Dryland Agriculture, noted that the SSSN is collaborating with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development to conduct research and disseminate vital information on effective soil utilization and fertilizer application.

“The collaboration aims to improve agricultural productivity and sustainability,” he added.

Several other prominent Nigerians will also be recognized for their contributions to soil health.

The conference will feature sessions on a range of sub-themes, including Land Resource Assessment and Management, Soil Health and Nutrient Management, Soil Physics and Conservation.

Additional sessions will cover Capacity Building and Extension, as well as Cross-Cutting Issues and Advances in Soil Science Research.

Stakeholders from various sectors, including researchers, policymakers, and agricultural practitioners, have been invited to participate and present innovative solutions to strengthen Nigeria’s agricultural sector.