Johnkennedy Uzoma, Owerri
The Nigerian Institute of Food Science and Technology, NIFST has been tasked to evaluate the technical feasibility of deploying locally made shelling machines to improve the overall quality and consumer acceptance of shelled melon.
Governor Emeka Ihedioha of Imo State gave this challenge when members of the Institute paid him a courtesy visit at the Government House, Owerri.
He expressed regret that Nigeria is the largest producer of melon worldwide with over 300 metric tons annually, but most of the seeds are wasted due to poor storage and primitive handling.
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Ihedioha re-stated the commitment of his administration towards seeking additional revenue through agriculture by making Imo state the hub of quality value added food products.
He equally noted that the mechanization of melon processing will improve its overall quality and consumer acceptance up to the international market thereby creating more job opportunities for youths and women.
Ihedioha announced an endowment of N3m to enable experts from the Nigerian Institute of Food Science and Technology, NIFST in collaboration with Imo state Agricultural Development Programme, ADP to conduct a study on mechanization of melon processing within nine months.
Earlier, President of the Institute, Mr. Emma Okoye congratulated Governor Emeka Ihedioha on his victory as Governor, noting that this marks the first time a food scientist has emerged as Governor in Nigeria.
