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Published on
19.05.25
As an institute committed to partnerships with both government and the private sector, IITA–CGIAR was pleased to host Nigeria’s Minister of Communication, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, at its headquarters in Ibadan on 2 May. The Minister’s visit aimed to explore how digital innovation can be leveraged to transform agricultural outcomes in Nigeria through strategic collaboration between the Ministry and IITA.
Welcoming the Minister, Former IITA Deputy Director General, Partnerships for Delivery, Kenton Dashiell, encouraged staff to consider how IITA could support the Ministry’s success. “There is great potential for a strong partnership,” he said, noting Dr Tijani’s dual role as a policymaker and a farmer.
Deputy Director General for Corporate Services, Hilde Koper, introduced IITA’s scope through a documentary highlighting the Institute’s regional activities across sub-Saharan Africa. Senior scientists and program leaders then shared insights into their work. Director for West Africa, Michael Abberton, highlighted the activities of IITA in the West Africa hub, including some of the digital tools developed by the hub, such as the IITA Seed Tracker and other plant health apps aimed at improving farming systems.