Calabar, Nigeria – In a recent interview with Wowplus, Mr Usen Umoh, the national vice chairman of the Natural Rubber Producers, Processors and Marketing Association of Nigeria (NARPPMAN), emphasized the importance of replanting aging rubber plantations in the country. Umoh believes that the rubber sub-sector will play a crucial role in determining Nigeria’s economic direction in the near future.
Umoh made a bold statement, suggesting that oil may no longer be the mainstay of Nigeria’s economy. He pointed out that various indices have confirmed that natural rubber has regained its prime status. In light of this, he urged Nigerians, especially rubber farmers, to invest more in regenerating or planting new rubber farms.
Interestingly, Umoh revealed that rubber farmers can generate substantial revenues from the carbon dioxide emitted by rubber plantations. According to him, rubber provides the cleanest carbon dioxide, making it highly sought after by international organizations. These organizations are willing to pay staggering amounts of foreign exchange; for rubber trees’ carbon emissions.
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“The more people are aware of carbon credits marketing from rubber, the better for them and the environment,” Umoh stated. He emphasized the vast opportunities for carbon marketing and urged Nigeria to invest in carbon credits, reduce its over-reliance on oil, and promote rubber planting as the future of the country’s economy.
Umoh highlighted the success stories of a few rubber farmers who have already tapped into this potential and are earning millions in foreign exchange. He encouraged other farmers to follow suit and maximize their profits through intercropping.
Intercropping, as Umoh explained, involves planting other crops or vegetables in the spaces between rubber trees. These low-lying crops benefit from the umbrella cover provided by the rubber trees. This practice allows farmers to generate additional income while waiting for the rubber trees to mature.
“Intercropping can provide an alternative source of income while waiting for the rubber gestational period,” Umoh added.
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In light of the long gestation period of rubber, Umoh appealed to financial institutions not to neglect rubber farmers. He emphasized the need for support and investment during this crucial stage of plantation development.
As Nigeria looks to diversify its economy and reduce its dependence on oil, the rubber sub-sector presents a promising opportunity. With the potential for substantial revenue from carbon credits and the ability to generate income through intercropping, rubber farming could be the key to Nigeria’s economic future.
As the national vice chairman of NARPPMAN, Umoh’s expertise and experience in the rubber industry make his insights invaluable. His call to action for rubber farmers to replant aging plantations and explore new opportunities aligns with the country’s broader economic goals.
Nigeria’s government and financial institutions should take note of Umoh’s advice and provide the necessary support and incentives to encourage rubber farming. By doing so, Nigeria can position itself as a leader in the rubber industry and secure a prosperous economic future for the country.
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