The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) has expressed its readiness to deploy its technological expertise to support agricultural development and ecological transformation in Niger State.

Bologi Ibrahim, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Niger State, disclosed this in a statement on Friday.

Dr. Simeon Ehui, Director-General of IITA, made this commitment during a meeting with Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago and his delegation at the institute’s headquarters in Ibadan.

“IITA has been at the forefront of agricultural research and innovation for over five decades,” Dr. Ehui stated.

“We are eager to work with Niger State to develop scalable solutions that improve food systems, enhance productivity, and empower farmers and youths.”

He highlighted that IITA’s mission aligns with Governor Bago’s transformative vision, particularly in driving agribusiness, mechanisation, and sustainable food production.

“We recognise the enormous agricultural potential of Niger State and its strategic location,” Dr. Ehui said, commending the governor’s dedication to leveraging agriculture for economic prosperity.

Governor Bago, who identifies himself as a “farmer governor,” acknowledged that agriculture is the backbone of Niger State and emphasised his administration’s commitment to investing in mechanisation and technology.

“The use of technology would help in harnessing the agricultural potentials of the state optimally,” he said.

He explained that his “farmer” moniker is intended to inspire youth engagement in agriculture, adding that Niger State is positioning itself as a pilot state for agricultural development in Nigeria.

“There is a global focus on mechanisation, but with insufficient human resources to drive it,” Governor Bago noted. “Collaboration with IITA would bridge this gap.”

He announced that the Niger State Assembly has passed a bill to establish the Niger State Agricultural and Science Development Institute, which will partner with IITA and other relevant organisations.

IITA’s Cassava breeder, Ismail Yusuf, and Chris Nkem, Coordinator of Technologies for African Agricultural Transformation (TAAT), detailed how IITA has deployed technologies to develop improved, drought-, flood-, and pest-resistant crop varieties.

They also highlighted IITA’s focus on providing agricultural extension services and promoting youth entrepreneurship.

Governor Bago stated that a team would be formed to finalise concrete areas of collaboration with IITA to achieve the desired transformation in the agricultural sector.