The National Palm Produce Association of Nigeria (NPPAN) has disclosed plans for the Federal Government to collaborate with the Malaysian Government in the development of palm biomass resources within Nigeria.
Ambassador Alphosus Inyang, President of NPPAN, unveiled this development during an exclusive interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Wednesday. Inyang underscored the significant economic potential of palm biomass, labeling it as a multi-billion dollar industry.
Biomass, according to Inyang, encompasses agricultural waste, and the initiative aims to convert such waste into valuable resources. He revealed that NPPAN is in talks with its Malaysian counterpart to replicate Malaysia’s successful utilization of palm biomass and other biomass resources in Nigeria.
Inyang projected that the development of palm biomass could inject $10 billion into the National Gross Domestic Product (GDP) within four years and generate over five million jobs within five years. He emphasized that Nigeria annually produces substantial agricultural waste, and signing the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) would enable the country to produce industrial goods, electricity, medicine, and fertilizer, mirroring Malaysia’s accomplishments.
Highlighting the environmental and economic benefits, Inyang noted the potential for Nigeria to domestically produce furniture materials and other imported products, such as high-density fiberwood and medium-density fiberwood.
Inyang elaborated on the composition of the palm tree, explaining that while 90% of it comprises biomass, the remaining 10% is palm oil. He detailed the various parts of the palm tree that constitute biomass, which are currently wasted in Nigeria but are effectively utilized in Malaysia’s thriving biomass economy.
The association is collaborating with the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment to develop a National Biomass Master Plan for Nigeria, Inyang disclosed. This plan will serve as a policy document guiding the implementation of palm biomass initiatives. The MoU is expected to be finalized by June, with Inyang urging the Ministry of Industry to expedite the development of the National Biomass Master Plan for Nigeria.
This collaboration underscores Nigeria’s commitment to harnessing its natural resources for economic development and sustainability, marking a significant step towards leveraging biomass as a catalyst for growth and job creation in the country.
Credit: News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)
