19/09/2012 (Nigerian Observer) -  Meaningful participation in the cultivation of improved oil palm can go a long way in helping to eradicate poverty in Edo State and Nigeria in general.

This was disclosed at the Oba’s palace, Benin-City Tuesday last week by the new executive Director of Nigerian Institute for Oil Palm Research, (NIFOR) Dr. Mike Asemota.

The research institute boss who was on a courtesy visit to the palace, told the Benin Monarch, Oba Erediauwa, that an average farmer who cultivates 1 hectare of Oil Palm is capable of netting an income of about N600,000, just as he said that to be very comfortable, such a farmer needed to triple his investment.

This tripling he said will make such an average farmer to hit the millionaire class.

He said this is a statement of fact that is feasible, provided the farmer does not allow the farm to be overtaken by weeds, adding that the right fertilizers and other applicable chemicals should also be applied appropriately and as at when due.

Dr Asemota cautioned farmers against sourcing their seedlings from the road sides rather; he advised that farmers should come directly to NIFOR and source their seedlings,

On dissemination of research findings of the institute to farmers, he charged farmers to always pay periodic visits to the institute. According to him, journals are always available for distribution to farmers.

He also urged the people of Edo and Nigerians in general to key into the vision and mission of institute.

He was showered with royal blessings and to enable him take NIFOR to greater height under a purposeful leadership.

The Oba congratulated him for his appointment and as well as expressed them to relevant authorities that made it possible to produce the first indigenous executive director in 72 years.

He was accompanied to the palace by senior directors of the institute which includes Dr (Mrs.) Okwuogwu, Dr. (Mrs.) I. B. Omamor, Dr. N.O. Asueni, Dr. C.I. Aisagbonhi and Barrister Eddy Udadughele among others.