IAR, IITA AND ACReSAL TRAIN FOUNDATION SEED COMPANIES ON QUALITY SEED PRODUCTION
The Institute for Agricultural Research (IAR), Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, in collaboration with the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) and the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) Project, on Monday, 26 October 2026, organised a one-day training programme on quality seed production for foundation seed companies at the IAR Conference Hall, Samaru, Zaria, Kaduna State.
The training was designed to strengthen participants’ technical knowledge and practical capacity in producing quality seeds of maize, sorghum, cowpea and groundnut, while also equipping them with essential skills in seed certification, quality control and marketing to improve the performance and sustainability of their seed businesses.
The Executive Director of IAR, Prof. Ado A. Yusuf, represented by the Deputy Director, Prof. Nafiu Abdu, emphasised the critical role of quality seeds in agricultural production, noting that the quality of agricultural produce—and, consequently, human nutrition—is closely linked to the quality of seeds planted.
He stressed that farming begins with the seed and explained that IAR, as an agricultural research institution, prioritises ensuring that farmers have access to improved, high-quality seeds capable of enhancing productivity.
Prof. Ado encouraged seed companies to sustain the production and distribution of quality seeds, highlighting their important role in translating agricultural research into improved farm productivity and stronger food security.
The training featured specialised sessions delivered by IAR scientists and experts, covering key principles and practices for producing quality seeds of major food and cash crops.
Maize Seed Production: Prof. M. Oyekunle trained participants on the concepts and production requirements of open-pollinated varieties (OPVs) and hybrid maize seeds, highlighting the importance of understanding their differences to ensure quality seed production.
Sorghum Seed Production: Dr. M. A. Yahaya discussed the principles and practices involved in producing OPV and hybrid sorghum seeds to strengthen participants’ capacity to supply quality seeds to farmers.
Cowpea Seed Production: Prof. M. L. Umar delivered a session on the fundamental concepts and practices of cowpea seed production, focusing on improving seed quality and availability for cowpea farmers.
Groundnut Seed Production: Dr. H. O. Ahmed presented the essential principles of groundnut seed production, with emphasis on maintaining seed quality to support improved crop establishment and productivity.
A key component of the training was the session on Seed Certification and Quality Control Procedures, facilitated by Mr. Idi Mohammed. The session highlighted the importance of certification and quality control in ensuring that seeds meet established standards for purity, quality and reliability before reaching farmers.
Beyond technical production skills, participants received training on Marketing Skills Development and Strategies, facilitated by Dr. Y. U. Oladimeji. The session focused on effective seed marketing, customer engagement and business development strategies to help seed companies expand their markets, reach more farmers and improve the sustainability of their operations.
The programme concluded with a course evaluation to assess participants’ understanding of the topics covered, followed by the presentation of certificates.
Quality Seeds, Better Harvests, Stronger Food Security
Institute for Agricultural Research (IAR), ABU Zaria
Driving Agricultural Research, Innovation and Transformation.
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