Illustrative Image: IITA Strengthens Nigeria’s Food Security with Research-Driven Agricultural Innovations
Image Source & Credit: IITA
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The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) has reiterated its unwavering commitment to driving agricultural transformation and enhancing food security across Nigeria through research-driven partnerships and coordinated, multi-stakeholder interventions.
During a recent mission to Abuja, Dr. Simeon Ehui, IITA’s Director General and CGIAR Regional Director for Continental Africa, engaged in high-level discussions with Mr. Mohamed Malick Fall, the United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for Nigeria. The dialogue focused on fostering collaboration to advance sustainable agriculture, youth-led agripreneurship, and resilient food systems across the nation.
Dr. Ehui emphasized the institute’s key research milestones and its tangible impact in addressing critical challenges confronting Africa’s agrifood systems. He highlighted areas such as soil fertility management, robust seed systems, and plant health—essential components for increasing productivity and ensuring sustainable farming practices.
Among IITA’s notable innovations is the award-winning Semi-Autotrophic Hydroponics (SAH) technology, which significantly enhances crop propagation and yields across diverse ecological zones. This technology has been instrumental in enabling farmers to increase production efficiently while conserving resources, marking a major step toward modernizing agriculture in the region.
“Scaling proven technologies from laboratories to farms remains our greatest challenge,” Dr. Ehui noted. “Strategic partnerships are crucial. By collaborating closely with development organizations like the United Nations, we aim to ensure Africa achieves food self-sufficiency.”
In his remarks, Mr. Fall reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s agricultural transformation, aligning these efforts with the broader goal of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He stated, “This visit has been high on my agenda—not merely to connect with IITA, but to establish a strong bridge for cooperation. Agriculture holds immense potential for economic transformation in Nigeria, provided the right investments and interventions are made.”
The meeting highlighted a shared vision between IITA, CGIAR, and the United Nations: to deliver science-based, inclusive, and sustainable solutions that strengthen food systems, improve livelihoods, and enhance economic opportunities across Africa. Through these strategic alliances, the partners aim to bridge research innovations with practical implementation, ensuring that cutting-edge agricultural solutions reach farmers and communities where they matter most.
By focusing on technology deployment, youth engagement, and sustainable practices, IITA continues to position itself as a cornerstone in Africa’s journey toward agricultural resilience and food security.
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