The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture has disclosed that the world is waiting for Nigeria to take a leadership position in the agricultural space.
Director General, IITA, Dr. Nteranya Sanginga, explained that the most populous black nation required potentials to lead the world in the agricultural industry across the globe.
“Since our inception 50 years ago, IITA has evolved into a strategic partner for research-for-development in sub-Saharan Africa with over 200 scientists working in over 18 countries and Nigeria is key among the countries.
“The event is slated to showcase the strides made by IITA researchers in collaboration with a range of partners and their impact on agriculture in the region and improving the livelihoods of smallholder farmers. These include adoption of almost 400 varieties of cassava with increased yields and better resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses; developing nearly 200 improved soyabeans and 78 improved yam varieties.
Over 70 per cent of the over 300 maize varieties with IITA germplasm and drought-tolerant maize developed in partnership with CIMMYT has been adopted in 13 countries with projected economic gains of $907 million,” he said.
As part of the anniversary, the President of African Development Bank, Dr. Akinwumi Adeshina, is expected to commission a $700,000 building for Youth Agripreneur in Ibadan, Oyo State, as part of the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture 50th anniversary.
The building, which comprises two major training rooms that can contain conveniently, 50 trainees each, has two big offices that can sit 30 interns each, and 20 standard-size offices.
Chair of the IITA50 Organizing Committee, Dr Kwesi Atta-Krah, said the celebration of the 50th year of IITA in Africa transcended past achievements.
“It is an opportunity for us to begin to look at the future of agriculture and the role IITA will be playing, especially as it relates to emerging challenges of climate change, pests and diseases, and rising youth unemployment,” he added.
Participants at the 50th anniversary are former President, International Fund for Agricultural Development, Dr. Kanayo Nwanze; President, Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote; Chairman, United Bank for Africa, Mr. Tony Elumelu; Minister of Agriculture and Livestock, Burundi, Dr. Deo-Guide Rurema.
Others are former Prime Minister, Democratic Republic of Congo, Matata Ponyo Mapon; Minister of Agriculture, Nigeria, Chief Audu Ogbeh; IITA Alumni Representative, Mrs. Ayoka Lawani; the Representative of Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Abuja, Dr. Audu Grema; Vice Chancellor, University of Ibadan, Prof. Abel Olayinka; and Oyo State Governor, Senator Isiaka Ajimobi.
