IAR Shines at the 47th National Council on Agriculture and Food Security Awards in Kaduna

IAR Shines at the 47th National Council on Agriculture and Food Security Awards in Kaduna

Others
November 10, 2025

It was indeed a proud and historic moment for the Institute for Agricultural Research (IAR), Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, as the Institute once again demonstrated excellence at the 47th Regular Meeting of the National Council on Agriculture and Food Security (NCAFS) held in Kaduna.

During the award session held today, 6th November 2025, three outstanding recognitions were bestowed upon IAR scientists and partners for their exceptional contributions to agricultural innovation, research excellence, and community impact.

Renowned maize breeder and distinguished scientist, Prof. Muhyideen Oyekunle, received the prestigious Best Agricultural Innovation Award in Kaduna State, in recognition of his groundbreaking research and innovations that continue to enhance crop productivity and resilience. Likewise, Dr. Rukayya Sami, a dynamic and passionate researcher with a proven track record in sorghum improvement and biotechnology, was honoured with the Best Agricultural Research Award in Kaduna State. Her dedication to advancing science-based solutions for sustainable agriculture has earned her national admiration.

Adding to these remarkable achievements, one of IAR’s long-standing community partners, the Dakace Multipurpose Cooperative Society, which operates as part of IAR’s Adopted Village System, was also recognized with the Best Cooperative Society Award in Kaduna State. This award underscores the success of IAR’s extension and outreach programmes aimed at transforming rural livelihoods through technology transfer and farmer capacity building.

The Executive Director of IAR, Prof. Ado Yusuf, led the Institute’s delegation to the event, accompanied by his Deputy Director and two Assistant Directors. Prof. Yusuf expressed immense joy and pride in the recognitions, describing them as a reflection of the Institute’s unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and impact-driven research. He further emphasized that IAR’s success is a result of teamwork, institutional dedication, and strong collaboration with key stakeholders in the agricultural sector.

Prof. Yusuf also extended heartfelt appreciation to the Kaduna State Ministry of Agriculture for its continuous partnership, encouragement, and recognition of IAR’s pivotal role in advancing agricultural research and development in the state and across Nigeria. He reaffirmed IAR’s readiness to continue supporting state and national initiatives that promote food security, climate resilience, and farmer empowerment.

These awards reaffirm IAR’s place as a national leader in agricultural research and innovation—committed to bridging the gap between research and practice, empowering farmers, and building a food-secure Nigeria.