Feed the Future Nigeria Integrated Agriculture Activity

13/11/2024

Empowering Communities for a Brighter Tomorrow: Brownfield Days 2024

From November 12th to 14th, farmers and community leaders across Yobe and Gombe states came together to showcase agricultural advancements at the 2024 Brownfield Days. In Akko LGA, Alhaji Waziri in the Kumo community proudly presented the improved Sammaz 52 Maize variety from the IITA demonstration farm. This maize variety represents a powerful step forward in crop productivity and resilience, promising greater yields and food security for our communities.

Through collaborative efforts and innovations like Sammaz 52, we’re not just improving farming practices—we’re building a stronger, sustainable future.
nigeria International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA)

16/10/2024

Happy World Food Day!

On this special day, we recognize the incredible dedication of our Community-Based Seed Producers (CBSPs), whose tireless efforts are helping to ensure food security in North East Nigeria. We celebrate the inspiring work of Ruth Dauda, Balkisu Abubakar of Kaltungo LGA, and Monica Yaddach of Baganje Community in Billiri LGA, Gombe State. These remarkable women are leading the way as Community-Based Seed Entrepreneurs (CBSEs), producing high-quality seeds that empower farmers and contribute to sustainable agriculture in our region.

Their contributions, supported by USAID and implemented by IITA and ICRISAT, are vital in building resilient communities, promoting food security, and ensuring a brighter future for all.

Join us in celebrating their efforts and the commitment of all our seed producers today!

27/09/2024

This week, we celebrated Greenfield Day in Gombe and Yobe States, showcasing local seed entrepreneurs' hard work and dedication.

Meet Victoria Barka Audi, a passionate community-based seed entrepreneur from Baganje, Billiri LGA, Gombe State. She's proudly standing on her rice seed farm (FARO 52 CBSE), a powerful reminder of her commitment to advancing sustainable agriculture in her community.

Greenfield Day is a powerful reminder of the impact of innovative farming practices and the role of local seed entrepreneurs in enhancing food security and livelihoods.

Let’s celebrate the efforts of farmers like Victoria, who are transforming their communities, one seed at a time!

31/08/2024

We recently had the pleasure of welcoming Xavier Preciado, the newly appointed Feed the Future Nigeria Coordinator, along with his team, to the IITA Abuja Mission Office. This visit marked a significant step in strengthening our collaboration and showcased the impactful work we're doing through the Feed the Future Nigeria Integrated Agriculture Activity (NIAA).

During the meeting, we highlighted the success of our Community-Based Seed Entrepreneur (CBSE) model, which has been instrumental in providing smallholder farmers with access to improved seed varieties, boosting yields, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. Mr. Preciado and his team were impressed with our progress and recognized the potential of scaling this model not just across Nigeria, but throughout sub-Saharan Africa.

As we move towards the closeout date of the NIAA, the discussions focused on ensuring continuity in agricultural support. We suggested implementing a bridge program to avoid any gaps, and we were reassured by the Feed the Future team's commitment to developing strategies to ensure a seamless transition.

This productive engagement reaffirmed the importance of innovation, collaboration, and partnership in driving agricultural transformation in Nigeria. We look forward to continued progress and shared success in our efforts to secure food security across the region.

Image: (Left to right) Dr Ayoade Adetoye (AOR, USAID Nigeria), Xavier Preciado (Coordinator, Feed the Future Nigeria), Olukayode Faleti (Deputy Chief of Party, NIAA), Dr Bassey Achibong (Market Systems and Livelihood Specialist, NIAA), Mr. Abdulkebiru Omoti (AAOR, USAID Nigeria), Yves Ilounga, Agriculture Officer (Agriculture Officer, USAID Nigeria)

30/08/2024

Grace Michael, mother of seven from Zarawuyaku, Borno State. A Community-Based Seed Producer under our program, she’s growing climate-resilient groundnut seeds, expecting a yield of 1,000kg! With her income, Grace can support her family’s future.

Breadcrumb Photo Contest Photo Gallery Women Farmers Adopting Climate-Resilient Crops in Northeast Nigeria Image Grace Michael, 45, is a farmer in the Zarawuyaku community of Biu, Borno state in North-East Nigeria. With seven children, she is the only income earner in the family and an active member...

12/08/2024

Happy International Youth Day!

Today, we celebrate the energy, creativity, and resilience of young people who are driving change in agriculture and shaping the future of food security in Nigeria. At the Feed the Future Nigeria Integrated Agriculture Activity, we proudly support and empower youth to become leaders in sustainable agriculture, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

From adopting modern farming techniques to leading community-based initiatives, our youth are at the forefront of transforming Nigeria's agricultural landscape. Their passion and commitment are vital in ensuring a food-secure future for all.

On this International Youth Day, let's continue investing in our youth, providing them with the tools and opportunities they need, and amplifying their voices in agriculture. Together, we can build a brighter, more sustainable future.

19/07/2024

The National Agricultural Seeds Council (NASC) Certificate Presentation train for the Community-Based Seed Entrepreneur Cooperatives moves to Biu, Borno State today. This milestone is a result of our work in the Northeast, developing the Seeds System for food security in Nigeria.

National Agricultural Seeds Council /Nigeria ICRISAT

17/07/2024

We are happy to announce an important milestone in our journey to transform agriculture in Northeast Nigeria! Since 2019, Feed the Future Nigeria Integrated Agriculture Activity (NIAA), backed by the US Government, has fostered agricultural growth and enhanced food security.

In response to the Ukraine-Russia conflict, we expanded our efforts in September 2022 to improve seed systems in Borno, Adamawa, Gombe, and Yobe. Partnering with the National Agricultural Seeds Council (NASC), we trained Community-Based Seed Entrepreneurs (CBSC) Cooperatives in good agronomy practices, providing them with essential agricultural inputs and marketing techniques.

Today, we proudly celebrate the NASC certification of 121 cooperatives, including 27 in Gombe, marking their dedication to high seed quality standards. Together, we are driving agricultural transformation and ensuring food security for all. 🌱🇳🇬

Frame 1: Principal Specialist, IITA/Chief of Party, NIAA, Prakash Kant Silwal
Frame 2: Dr Isiaku Babayo, Special Assistant on Donor, Development, Partners Coordination, Gombe State, representing the Deputy Governor. His Excellency, Dr Manasseh Daniel Jatau.
Frame 3: Mr Sagir Yakub, Regional Director, National Agricultural Seeds Council (NASC)
Frame 4: One of the beneficiaries, Madam Asabe Manga from Akko LGA, Gombe State receiving the certificate from the Honorable Commissioner for Agriculture, Gombe State, Dr Barnabas Malle.
Frame 5: Madam Mairo Alfa, Biliri LGA, Gombe State, receiving her cooperative certificate from the Chief of Party, Nigeria Integrated Agriculture Activity/Principal Specialist IITA, Mr Prakash Kant Silwal

17/07/2024

Happening now: Experience the joy of a community that fully appreciates the intervention in food security in the Northeast. Thanks to the good people of the United States of America.

from Filiya, Billiri LGA, Gombe State.

17/07/2024

Happening Now: The public presentation of National Agricultural Seeds Council (NASC) certificates to the Community Based Seed Entrepreneur (CBSE) cooperative supported by USAID/Nigeria and implemented by International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) and ICRISAT

12/06/2024

Celebrating Nigerian Democracy Day

Happy Democracy Day, Nigeria!

Today, we commemorate the strength and resilience of our great nation and celebrate the democratic values that bind us together. At the Feed the Future Nigeria Integrated Agriculture Activity (NIAA), we are proud to contribute to the growth and prosperity of our beloved country by empowering farmers, promoting sustainable agricultural practices, and fostering economic development.

As we honour this significant day, let's remember the importance of unity, freedom, and the power of collective action in shaping a brighter future for all Nigerians. Together, we can build a more prosperous and inclusive nation where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Here's to democracy, progress, and the enduring spirit of the Nigerian people. Happy Democracy Day! 🎉

11/06/2024

📸🌾 Exciting Collaboration Alert! 🌾📸

We're excited to announce a significant milestone for the Nigeria Integrated Agriculture Activity (NIAA). Our Chief of Party, Prakash Kant Silwal, alongside the esteemed Deputy Governor of Borno State, His Excellency Hon. Umar Usman Kadafur, recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at the Deputy Governor's office.

This MOU is a commitment to furthering agricultural development, sustainability and ensuring food security within Borno State. The collaboration will enhance our efforts to support farmers, boost agricultural productivity, and promote sustainable farming practices across the region. Thanks to the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the Activity implemented integrated agricultural deliverys in the state in the past 5 years.

Stay tuned for more updates on our continued collaborative efforts to transform agriculture and improve livelihoods in Borno State!


USAID/Nigeria