The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) has renewed its pledge to support Nigeria’s agricultural transformation and food security agenda through a strengthened alliance with the United Nations.
During a recent engagement in Abuja, Simeon Ehui, Director-General of IITA, held strategic discussions with Mohamed Fall, the United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for Nigeria.
The dialogue focused on advancing sustainable agricultural practices, promoting youth participation in agribusiness, and boosting food system resilience across the country.
As a non-profit research organization, IITA is known for developing innovative solutions to Africa’s persistent challenges, ranging from hunger and malnutrition to poverty and environmental degradation.
Ehui shared some of IITA’s remarkable research achievements and the tangible impact of its work in improving Africa’s agricultural landscape, particularly in enhancing soil fertility, strengthening seed systems, and safeguarding plant health.
He also highlighted the success of the Semi-Autotrophic Hydroponics (SAH) technology, an award-winning innovation that has revolutionized crop propagation and improved productivity in several regions.
According to Ehui, one of the institute’s biggest hurdles remains the scaling up of proven technologies from research labs to reach farmers on a broader scale.
“This is why partnerships matter,” he explained. “By working hand in hand with organizations like the United Nations, we can help Africa attain true food sufficiency.”
In his remarks, Fall reaffirmed the UN’s readiness to partner with IITA in accelerating Nigeria’s agricultural development as part of its drive toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
“This meeting was high on my agenda,” Fall said. “It’s not just about engaging with IITA, but about establishing a meaningful bridge between our institutions. Agriculture remains the most powerful driver of Nigeria’s economic growth, if supported with the right investments.”
