IITA-Yam breeding program collaborates with farmers to boost seed yam production across Nigerian states

Farmers’ access to improved yam varieties is vital for boosting yields and improving livelihoods. In Benue, Cross River, Kaduna, Nasarawa, Niger and Oyo states, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja, yam farmers are adopting the newly released varieties from IITA–CGIAR as these varieties promise higher yields and better resilience.

Over the past two decades, yam cultivation has declined due to the unavailability of preferred varieties and quality seed tubers. However, IITA’s Yam Breeding Program is revitalizing this essential crop by providing farmers with the tools they need to increase productivity. This initiative is promoting economic stability and strengthening food security in the region.

The Breeding Program embarked on harvesting the varieties in October 2024, marking the end of the 2024 yam planting season. The harvest started on the trial field located within IITA Headquarters at Ibadan, followed by other parts of the country – FCT Abuja, Oyo State (Alagbede, Igboho); Kaduna State (Kachia and Zango Kataf); Cross River (Nyanya and Bekwara); Niger State  (Bosso, Kafin Koro, Lapai); Nasarawa (Obi, Deddere, Keana); and Benue (Tarka, Guma and Konshisha). The Program has sustained collaborative research with farmers, enhancing their agronomic practices related to yam propagation.

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