Incoming IITA–CGIAR Director General, Dr Simeon Ehui, said he was impressed by the innovation, passion, and
commitment of staff and the state of the Institute after a familiarization visit to the research center’s headquarters in Ibadan, Nigeria.
Following his appointment as the next DG, Dr Ehui embarked on the tour, during which he met with the Institute’s Senior Management Team and directors, including outgoing DG Dr Nteranya Sanginga. After an excellent
conversation about past activities and the incoming DG’s planned direction, Dr Sanginga declared that “the future is bright.”
Dr Ehui toured the Institute’s facilities, meeting the staff of the different directorates and units. He learned about their impactful research and other activities as he sought to “feel the pulse of the Institute.”
During the stopover at the clinic, Deputy Director General for Corporate Services (DDG-CS), Hilde Koper, showed Dr Ehui the latest advancements in medical technology, and he was amazed by the level of innovation being
implemented. He was delighted with the attention to staff welfare, which he plans to prioritize.
He also visited the kitchen, where the chefs demonstrated their unique cooking methods using biogas. He was pleased with this energy-saving initiative, which also reduces the carbon footprint, positively impacting the environment.
Dr Ehui, who will also be the CGIAR’s first Regional Director for Continental Africa, was particularly impressed with the next generation—the children at the IITA International School and the Youth in Agribusiness office, who are
championing different youth-focused programs. He applauded the energetic and curious children at the school and the
teachers working hard to provide a bright future for them.
On the final day of his visit, Dr Ehui met with IITA staff in a historic town hall with three Director Generals attending. Playfully referred to as “The 3 DGs”, outgoing DG Sanginga, incoming DG Ehui, and Interim DG Bernard Vanlauwe all addressed the staff. They spoke briefly about the excellent foundation and outlook in the short and long term.
Dr Ehui was impressed by the innovation, passion, and commitment he saw in everyone he met. He said he was
energized and inspired to join a team of dedicated professionals making a positive global impact and was eager to start making a difference.
Contributed by Martin Hope and Folake Oduntan
Contributed by
Related news