IITA, Research Institutions Crucial to FG’s Agric Revolution – VP Shettima

Vice President Kashim Shettima has restated the importance of research institutions like the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) in achieving the Federal Government’s agricultural revolution goals.

According to Shettima, President Bola Tinubu’s administration is committed to harnessing the potential of institutions like IITA to drive food production and security in Nigeria.

Speaking during an assessment tour of the IITA in Ibadan on Tuesday, Shettima expressed confidence in the institution’s capacity to contribute to Nigeria’s agricultural development.

“The IITA is an institution that has been at the forefront of agricultural research, food security, and economic development across Africa for the past five decades,” he said.

Shettima, who was accompanied by senior government officials, including the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security during the tour, also pointed out that the federal government had not fully utilized IITA’s potential in the past, but said “it’s better late than never.”

Shettima noted government’s willingness to partner with IITA, citing the institution’s commitment to practical research, impact, and technological innovations.

The Director-General of IITA, Dr. Simeon Ehui, said the institution’s initiatives are aimed at improving access to climate-resilient seeds and agricultural technologies.

“Our innovative systems between IITA-CGIAR and partners have increased farmers’ access to high-yield climate-resilient seeds,” Ehui said.

He also mentioned the establishment of community-based enterprises in the Northeast, which focus on youth and women’s participation in agriculture.