By Felix Khanoba
Professor Ahmed Amin Njidda from the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) has underscored the significant role of tiger nut in ruminant nutrition and advocated for its broader use in feeding sheep and other ruminants.
In a statement issued on Friday by Ibrahim Sheme, Director of Media and Publicity at NOUN, Professor Njidda made these remarks during NOUN’s 26th Inaugural Lecture held on Thursday, July 25, 2024, at the university’s Abuja headquarters.
His lecture was titled “Marvels in Ruminant Nutrition: The Quest for Animal Protein.”
The inaugural lecture, a key event in the university’s academic calendar, attracted scholars, students, and distinguished guests. Professor Njidda’s research highlighted the benefits of incorporating tiger nut into sheep diets, demonstrating its potential to enhance nutrient intake and animal performance.
Njidda emphasized the crucial role of animal protein in a well-rounded diet and stressed the importance of ruminant nutrition for improving livestock production and ensuring food security. He pointed out that Nigeria’s growing population increases the demand for sustainable food sources.
The professor presented evidence from multiple studies linking nutritional practices with improved animal productivity.
He explained how the quality and quantity of feed influence animal health and reproduction, and discussed the socio-economic value of ruminants to impoverished farmers, including their economic stability and provision of essential resources like traction, manure, and fiber.
Professor Njidda also addressed the utilization of marginal lands and water resources to produce high-quality animal products, stressing the need for efficient resource use in both intensive and extensive production systems.
He expressed gratitude to Vice Chancellor Prof. Olufemi Peters for the opportunity to deliver the lecture and for supporting his research endeavors.
Njidda highlighted the need for ongoing research and innovation in ruminant nutrition to boost food production while minimizing environmental impact, thus contributing to food security and economic development in Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa.
Vice Chancellor Prof. Olufemi Peters commended Professor Njidda for his insightful lecture, recognizing its significance in connecting agriculture, food security, and human well-being. Peters acknowledged the importance of such lectures in advancing academic knowledge and societal progress.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic, Prof. C.F. Mafiana, who appreciated the efforts of all involved in making the lecture a success.
Mafiana expressed deep gratitude to Professor Njidda for his illuminating presentation and praised Vice Chancellor Peters for his vision and leadership in fostering academic excellence and societal impact at NOUN.
