President Bola Tinubu
By PATRICK ABANG, Calabar –
President Bola Tinubu is expected to declare Rubber Summit open, with a charge to Governors of natural rubber producing states, to take advantage of the arrival of investors and international rubber experts for the World Rubber Summit.
The event is slated to hold in the banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa Abuja, where President Bola Tinubu is to formally declare the 3-day conference open.
Minister of Industries, Trade and Investments, Dr Doris Nkiruka Uzoka-Anite who is the chief host has expressed the economic importance of the subsector and why the rubber producing governors and their key rubber players should attend.
She said federal government got the hosting right because the rubber industry was of critical importance to the economic mainstay of the country.
In his statement, the National Vice President of National Rubber Producers, Processors and Marketers Association of Nigeria (NARPPMAN) for South South, Mr. Usen Umoh also appealed to governors in the region which is regarded as the bastion of rubber production to ensure participation
He said, “This summit presents an unparalleled opportunity to rejuvenate the rubber industry, fostering economic growth, environmental sustainability, and social progress within the South-South region.
“By engaging in this summit, our states can attract investments, boost local economies, and create jobs.”
He disclosed that rubber is a vital cash crop with significant export potential, revealing that global leaders and industry experts will provide invaluable insights into the latest advancements and opportunities in the rubber sector.
Usen listed key advantages, saying rubber plantations contribute to carbon sequestration, which enables it to combat climate change and promote ecological balance.
He maintained that participation in the summit will enable producing states to adopt sustainable practices and enhance commitment to environmental conservation.
In view of prevailing harsh times, Usen called for revitalization of the rubber industry to improve the livelihoods of thousands of farmers and their families.
