Access to quality seed remains one of the biggest constraints to yam productivity in Africa. Addressing this challenge requires more than improved technologies; it demands a network of skilled seed producers, strong businesses, effective quality assurance systems, and reliable market linkages.
To advance this goal, the Program for Seed System Innovations for Vegetatively Propagated Crops in Africa (PROSSIVA) convened a two-day capacity-building training for commercial seed companies (CSCs), certified seed entrepreneurs (CSEs), early generation seed (EGS) producers, and cooperatives from 18 to 19 June 2026 at the IITA–CGIAR, Abuja station. The training brought together representatives from 27 organizations across multiple states in Nigeria, strengthening the technical, business, regulatory, and digital capacities of seed actors critical to the production and delivery of quality seed yams to farmers.
Opening the technical sessions, Dr Aighewi provided participants with a foundation in quality seed yam production, highlighting the critical role of seed as the primary carrier of a crop’s genetic potential and a key determinant of productivity. She also introduced participants to the Leaf-Bud Cuttings (LBCs) Technology, an innovative propagation method that enables rapid multiplication of disease-free planting materials while reducing dependence on bulky seed tubers. The technology offers a practical pathway to increase the availability of quality seed yams and to support year-round seed production.
Building on this, Dr Daniel Aihebhoria trained participants on seed yam production using mini-sett technology and effective postharvest management practices. The session emphasized the importance of maintaining seed quality from production through storage, helping participants understand how proper handling, treatment, sorting, and storage contribute to stronger seed enterprises and reduced losses.
Recognizing that sustainable seed systems require viable businesses, Dorcas Omole of SAHEL Consulting, one of PROSSIVA’s partners, facilitated a business development session for seed actors. Participants explored practical approaches to enterprise planning, branding, partnership development, and investment readiness, and learned to apply tools such as the Business Model Canvas and SWOT analysis to strengthen the commercial viability of their operations.
The business-focused discussions were complemented by a session on seed yam pricing and record-keeping, facilitated by Paschal Adikaibe, of SAHEL Consulting. Participants learned the importance of accurate production, inventory, sales, and customer records for improving profitability, supporting certification processes, building customer trust, and enhancing access to finance.
As digital tools become increasingly important for modern seed systems, Dr Lava Kumar introduced participants to SeedTracker™ Pro, a platform designed to improve visibility, traceability, market linkages, and business networking across the seed sector. Through digital profiling and mapping, the platform provides seed producers with opportunities to expand market access and strengthen confidence in certified seed transactions.
Participants also gained exposure to improved yam varieties developed by IITA through a presentation by Dr Amele Asrat. The session highlighted the role of these improved varieties in increasing productivity and meeting market demand, while addressing common misconceptions about their development.
aTo ensure quality standards remain central to a functional seed system, Dr Raheem Rasheed of the National Agricultural Seeds Council (NASC) guided participants through seed certification standards and procedures. The session reinforced the importance of regulatory compliance, traceability, and quality assurance in building a credible and sustainable seed industry.
A major highlight of the training was the hands-on practical sessions held in IITA’s research fields, seed storage facilities, and screen house. Coordinated by Dr Daniel Aihebhoria, and Loveth Onuegbu, the practical exercises enabled participants to apply key concepts in seed yam production, nursery management, storage, and quality maintenance.
Participant feedback indicated strong satisfaction with both technical content and practical demonstrations. More importantly, follow-up feedback revealed that many participants had already planted the mini tubers and LBCs received during the training, demonstrating a willingness to adopt and scale the technologies immediately.
By equipping seed enterprises with the knowledge, tools, and networks needed to produce and market high-quality planting materials, PROSSIVA is helping to strengthen seed systems for vegetatively propagated crops and improve farmers’ access to reliable seed. These efforts are laying the foundation for a more productive, resilient, and commercially viable yam sector in Nigeria and across Africa.
Contributed by
Isaac Ajayi, Daniel Aihebhoria, Beatrice Aighewi and Delphine Amah