THE International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and the Value Chain Development Programme (VCDP), in partnership with the Agriculture and Food Production Initiative (AFPI), are making a significant impact in rural communities by training young individuals in modern rice seed production techniques.
The community-focused initiative was designed to empower youths with the knowledge and skills needed to enhance rice farming practices, by introducing innovative methods such as improved and quality seed selection, planting techniques, and appropriate post-harvest management, the programme aims to boost agricultural productivity, strengthen local economies and promote food security.
Through this service to rural communities, IFAD-VCDP and AFPI are fostering self-reliance in communities, reducing unemployment, and providing sustainable opportunities for youths, ensuring a brighter future for farming communities across the region.
This specialised capacity development programme, led by Dr. Abraham Attah Shaibu at Africa Rice Center (AfricaRice), utilized the advanced lowland rice production facilities of the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA).
Dr. Shaibu, a scientist at National Cereals Research Institute (NCRI), Ibadan Station, has made significant contributions to seed systems development in Nigeria.
The training, which focused on rice seed production technologies, was facilitated by members of AFPI and collaborators. Dr Shaibu, a Plant Breeder at NCRI who has newly assumed the role of Regional Partnership Lead and Seed Delivery for the Institute, expressed confidence that his new role will seamlessly support NCRI’s research mandate and vision to enhance seed systems in Nigeria and across the region.
The training emphasised further on the best practices for quality seed production, pest and disease management, and seed storage. Participants were also introduced to innovative seed delivery strategies to ensure the widespread adoption of quality seeds among local rice farmers.
The Plant Breeder, leveraging his expertise and new leadership position during the training, underscored the importance of certified seeds in enhancing productivity and food security.
Practical demonstrations and hands-on sessions were included, allowing participants to gain practical experience and a deeper understanding of the technologies involved in seed production.
The states involved in the training programme includes Anambra, Enugu, Ebonyi, Kogi, Niger and Ogun State. Dr. Shaibu highlighted the importance of equipping youths with modern agricultural techniques to ensure food security and sustainable development.
“Empowering young people with the right skills and knowledge in rice seed production is a key step towards achieving agricultural resilience and economic growth in Nigeria,” he remarked during the training.
As part of community engagement and service, this initiative aligns with NCRI’s mission to promote sustainable agricultural practices and strengthen partnerships for effective seed delivery across the region.
The collaboration between IFAD-VCDP and AFPI will be linked further to NCRI for continuous empowerment of young agripreneurs, contributing significantly to the development of the rice value chain in Nigeria.
The collaboration between IFAD-VCDP, AFPI, AfricaRice, NCRI and IITA highlights a growing commitment to addressing food security challenges through research, innovation, and strategic partnerships.
Dr. Shaibu’s involvement exemplifies the critical role of scientists in bridging knowledge gaps and fostering sustainable agricultural practices, particularly in rural communities.
This programme is expected to have a ripple effect, as participants are encouraged to transfer the acquired knowledge to their respective communities, thereby promoting local agricultural productivity and increasing income and improving livelihoods.
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