The National Agricultural Seeds Council (NASC) has reiterated its dedication to strengthening Nigeria’s seed industry as it organizes the 2025 Annual Early Generation Seed (EGS) planning and coordination meeting in Abuja.
As a significant event in Nigeria’s agricultural calendar, the meeting gathers key stakeholders in the seed industry to develop strategies for enhancing seed quality, availability, and national food security.
During the opening session, NASC Acting Director General, Dr. Ishiak Khalid, emphasized the crucial role of Early Generation Seeds (EGS) in driving the country’s agricultural transformation.
“We are gathered here today not only to talk about seeds but to shape the future of Nigeria’s food security,” he stated, underscoring the importance of high-quality seeds as the backbone of sustainable food production.
A key moment of the event was the announcement of Nigeria’s official membership in the International Union for the Protection of New Plant Varieties (UPOV).
With President Bola Ahmed Tinubu recently signing the Instrument of Ascension, Nigeria has become the 80th member of UPOV, a status set to take effect on March 27, 2025.
This milestone is expected to drive investment in seed research, support plant breeders, and promote the development of climate-resilient and nutrient-rich seed varieties.
Reaffirming its commitment to global best practices in seed production, Nigeria also maintains membership in the OECD Seed Schemes and the International Seed Testing Association (ISTA).
Additionally, NASC operates an ISTA-accredited laboratory, ensuring Nigerian seeds comply with international quality standards.
Over the next two days, experts and industry stakeholders will address key challenges in seed production, including evaluating EGS progress, fostering partnerships, advancing seed production innovations, utilizing data-driven decision-making, and advocating for policy reforms.
Khalid expressed appreciation to AGRA and the Gates Foundation for their continued support in strengthening Nigeria’s seed sector.
“Their steadfast commitment to seed system development has played a crucial role in making this meeting possible,” he stated.
As discussions progress, stakeholders are encouraged to take decisive action in identifying solutions and ensuring effective implementation. The meeting’s outcomes will directly contribute to the National Food Security Agenda, reinforcing Nigeria’s dedication to sustainable agriculture and self-sufficiency.
Through these collective efforts, NASC aims to establish a resilient seed system that ensures food security for all Nigerians, aligning with the government’s broader agricultural transformation goals.
