IITA–CGIAR hosted the Belgian Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency Pieter Leenknegt, accompanied by Advisor for Economic Diplomacy Genco Sanli, at the institute’s headquarters on 25 August. His visit explored potential collaboration between IITA and the Belgian government to increase agricultural opportunities and foster sustainable development in the sector.
IITA West Africa Director and Head of Genetic Resources Center Michael Abberton welcomed and briefed the visiting dignitaries on the institute’s ongoing research initiatives and their significant impact on strengthening African food systems. He expressed gratitude to the Belgian government for its continuous cooperation and support, which has been instrumental in fostering collaborative efforts with the University of Gent—where they work together for crop improvement—and with the Alliance Bioversity & CIAT, a member of the CGIAR.
In addition, Abberton explained that while IITA primarily focuses on agronomy, plant health, youth programs, and gene banking, the institute also operates the IITA Forest Center dedicated to afforestation in Nigeria.
HE Leenknegt noted that this visit marks a crucial step toward greater involvement in IITA projects and flagship initiatives in Nigeria. He expressed interest in exploring how other Belgian universities could contribute through collaborative efforts, leveraging Belgium’s expertise in tropical agriculture.
Leenknegt emphasized his commitment to seeking partnerships in the Global South, particularly in underdeveloped regions, and declared his intention to intensify efforts to facilitate these collaborations.
“Both academic institutions and national organizations would benefit from strengthened cooperation between countries, leading to mutually beneficial advancements in agricultural research and development,” Leenknegt mentioned.
At the IITA Youth Agripreneur (IYA), Partnership and Job Placement Officer Funmilayo Ilesanmi, who also works for the Agrihub project, exposed Ambassador Leenknegt to how young people are transforming agriculture across Africa by equipping them with skills in diverse value chains to drive sustainable growth and address the challenges of rural-urban migration.
Postdoctoral Plantain and Banana Breeder Moses Nyine underscored the importance of involving young people in plantain and banana breeding. He highlighted that such engagement fosters food security and creates valuable employment opportunities for young people.
Contributed by Anita Akinyomade
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