In a concerted effort to bolster the capabilities of agro-input dealers in Nigeria, the SASAKAWA AFRICA ASSOCIATION orchestrated a two-day training program in partnership with Obafemi Awolowo University. The event held at the Postgraduate Room of Agricultural Economics of the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife. The training brings together a cohort of 17 participants drawn from the University of Ilorin, Bowen University and the Obafemi Awolowo University which is the host institution. The purpose behind this gathering was to facilitate an exchange visit and provide comprehensive training for stakeholders in the field of agriculture.

The opening ceremony was graced by the Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture at Obafemi Awolowo University, Prof Tijani. During his introductory speech, he discussed the far-reaching impact of national economic policies on the country’s growth and development, underscoring the vital role of agriculture in fulfilling the nation’s growth and development requirements. He also pointed out that agriculture could help alleviate the challenges arising from the recent removal of fuel subsidies. Additionally, he emphasized the concerning lack of involvement from stakeholders in the agricultural sector and highlighted the crucial role of agro-input dealers in implementing effective agricultural practices. The Dean passionately emphasized the need to prioritize agriculture at the national level and elaborated on the importance of cultivating crops with improved yield and quality.

Representing the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Akanni Akinyemi, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation, and Development extended a warm welcome to the esteemed resource persons, Prof. M.B Sosan and Prof. J. Saka, as well as the enthusiastic participants from various universities. In his address, he stressed the significant role of agriculture, the promotion of partnerships, and the exceptional opportunity for academics to align with the new government administration’s vision of expanding the agricultural sector, ultimately positioning Nigeria as a leading global exporter of agricultural products.

The training program has two sessions The first was a technical session on Good Agronomic Practices, expertly led by Prof. M.B Sosan. The second was a Business Clinic skillfully facilitated by Prof. J. Saka. These sessions were designed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills required to excel in their roles as agro-input dealers and contribute to the advancement of agriculture in Nigeria.

Report written by Catherine Emakpor, and Oluwatobiloba Shadare

Central Office of Research, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife