As part of the IITA PROSSIVA initiative, a landmark event was hosted at Field CS7, uniting farmers and agricultural experts to enhance yam cultivation practices. The event showcased the benefits of traditional farmer varieties compared to IITA-developed yam varieties, with participation from two prominent farmers’ cooperatives—Ifesowapo and Eniosa.
A field supervisor from IITA, Lasisi Jimoh, highlighted the yam planting process in his opening remarks, explaining how leaf bud cuttings have been nurtured in the nursery and are now ready for mini-tuber planting. “We want to compare farmers’ varieties and IITA varieties,” he stated, emphasizing the collaborative nature of the project. Lasisi assured the farmers that they would handle their own yam plantings to ensure transparency and authenticity in the comparison. This hands-on approach allows farmers to showcase their traditional methods while learning from IITA’s innovative techniques.
One of the enthusiastic participants, Seyi Oyelade, President of the Irepodun Farmers Association, expressed his excitement about the demonstration. “I am happy to be here and to plant alongside IITA experts,” Oyelade said. He shared his optimism about the new yam varieties introduced by IITA PROSSIVA, noting that their disease resistance and high yield potential could significantly outperform traditional varieties. Oyelade’s positive outlook reflects farmers’ growing trust and expectation in IITA’s research and development efforts.
Tijani Musbau from the Ifesowapo Cooperative also shared his thoughts, underscoring the long-standing relationship between his cooperative and IITA. “We have been with IITA for many years and have learned a lot,” Musbau remarked. He acknowledged the valuable guidance provided by IITA in refining their yam planting techniques, leading to more abundant harvests. Musbau’s vision for the future is ambitious yet hopeful. “With the help of IITA, one day, our yam will be acceptable at the United Nations,” he added.
This demonstration is more than just an agricultural event; it is a testament to the power of collaboration between local farmers and scientific researchers. By blending traditional knowledge with cutting-edge agricultural practices, the IITA PROSSIVA initiative is poised to revolutionize yam farming in the region. Farmers like Oyelade and Musbau are at the forefront of this transformation, embodying the spirit of innovation and cooperation that will drive agricultural success for years.
As the yams grow side by side, both farmers and scientists will eagerly observe the results, learning and adapting together. This partnership promises to improve yam yields and quality and ensure food security and economic prosperity for farming communities. The IITA PROSSIVA planting demonstration marks a significant step towards a brighter, more sustainable future for agriculture.
Contributed by Victoria Idowu
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