Vice President Kashim Shettima has reaffirmed President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to transforming Nigeria’s agricultural sector, emphasizing the pivotal role of research institutions such as the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) in ensuring food security.
Speaking in Ibadan, Oyo State, during a visit to IITA, Shettima highlighted the institution’s expertise in agricultural research and technological innovation, noting that self-sufficiency in food production has become imperative, especially with the decline in specialized grants for health and agriculture.
“The IITA has been at the forefront of agricultural research and food security in Africa for over five decades. While Nigeria has underutilized its potential in the past, we are now fully committed to harnessing its capabilities,” Shettima stated.
The Vice President, alongside Agriculture Minister Abubakar Kyari and Senior Special Assistant on Agribusiness Dr. Kingsley Uzoma, toured IITA’s facilities, including the Seed Multiplication Centre and Business Incubation Platform. The visit underscored the administration’s plan to leverage research-driven solutions to boost food production.
IITA Director-General Dr. Simeon Ehui detailed the institute’s initiatives, including climate-resilient seed development, soil health improvement, and job creation programs in the Northeast. He also highlighted the partnership with the Presidential Food Systems Coordinating Unit to tackle agricultural crises such as the ginger blight epidemic.
The visit marks a renewed government effort to integrate scientific research into Nigeria’s agricultural policies, reinforcing the Tinubu administration’s commitment to sustainable food security and economic growth.
