The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) has released more than 200 improved crop varieties developed in collaboration with Nigerian research institutions and global partners, marking a major step in strengthening the country’s food security and climate resilience.

Dr Simeon Ehui, Director-General of IITA and Regional Director, Continental Africa, CGIAR, made the announcement during the 3rd International Conference of the Nigerian Plant Breeders Association (NPBA) held in Abuja. 

The conference, hosted by IITA, was themed “Crop Improvement for Food Security, Sustainable Agricultural Systems and Environment.”

He emphasised that the new crop varieties are designed to withstand heat, drought, salinity, and emerging pests, making them critical in addressing the impacts of climate change on agriculture.

“We must not only produce more food, but we must also produce better food that nourishes, diversifies diets and empowers smallholder farmers, especially women and youths,” Ehui said.

 IITA has also mentored the next generation of agricultural scientists through the International Association of Research Scholars and Fellows (IARSAF) platform. 

Ehui stressed that sustaining careers in plant breeding and agricultural research is essential to ensure innovation continues to reach farmers and markets.

He commended the work of plant breeders, researchers, and scientists and urged them to take bolder, coordinated action in resilience, equity, and demand-led breeding. 

According to him, collaboration with the private sector is vital to ensure farmers’ access to improved seeds and technologies.

Ehui also highlighted the larger significance of plant breeding, noting its role in securing the future of agriculture:

“Plant breeding is about the farmer in a drought-prone village, the child who needs a more nutritious meal, and the young breeder who will carry this work forward. 

“Every seed we improve carries the promise of a better life for someone, somewhere.”

The conference gathered stakeholders from Nigeria, Africa, and beyond to deliberate on climate challenges, sustainable farming, biotechnology, and seed delivery systems. Ehui called for collective efforts to create a future where 

“No farmer fears a failed harvest, no child goes hungry, and no community is left behind in agricultural innovation.”

Source: Tribune

Image Credit: IITA