On 26th May 2026, the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture in Ibadan opened its gates to over 200 children and to a question that has never been more urgent: what kind of future are we preparing young Nigerians to inherit, and are we doing enough to equip them for it?…
For generations, Ikoyi, an ancient town in Isokan Local Government Area of Osun State, has been celebrated across Southwest Nigeria for its deep-rooted traditions, vibrant festivals, and proud warrior heritage. Today, the town is gaining a different kind of recognition, one anchored not in war or royalty, but in environmental…
In a targeted response to widespread misinformation about food security, the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) has concluded a comprehensive training program for 20 Nigerian media practitioners. The program demonstrated the critical role of bioscience and genebanks in preserving Africa’s agricultural heritage and securing its food future. Within IITA’s…
Cowpea, popularly called the โpoor manโs meat,โ is a staple in Nigeriaโs agricultural and nutritional landscape. With about 25% protein, alongside carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals, the legume plays a critical role in ensuring food security for millions of households. For decades, however, farmers have struggled with pest infestations, declining yields,…
To strengthen banana and plantain production in Nigeria and beyond, Radio IITA, in collaboration with the plantain and banana breeding program of the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA ย organized an intensive outreach program for over 30 smallholder farmers. The training, held on July 25, 2025, is part of the…
World Ranger Day, observed every July 31, honors the men and women who put their lives on the line to protect the earthโs wildlife and forests. At the Omo Forest Reserve in Ogun State, Nigeria, rangers live this reality daily. As part of activities marking this yearโs commemoration, Wild Africa,…
On this yearโs World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought, Radio IITA journeys across Africa to spotlight a quiet but powerful revolution: the effort to restore degraded lands and unlock opportunities for people and planet. During a Special Edition of Science That Touches Us, a radio show on Radio IITA…
The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) proudly welcomes His Excellency, President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone, alongside key stakeholders in agriculture and food systems, for a high-level visit focused on strengthening partnerships for agricultural transformation and food security. With support from the Nigerian government and Oyo State Governor,…
The 10th International Day of Women and Girls in Science, themed “Unpacking STEM Careers: Her Voice in Science,” was commemorated on February 11, 2025, at IITA-CGIAR through a hybrid event. The celebration brought together young girls, women leaders, scientists, and representatives from various sectors to discuss women’s leadership roles and…
In 2024, RadioIITAโs Farmers Outreach Initiative continued its mission to empower smallholder farmers with cutting-edge agricultural knowledge and practical tools, transforming livelihoods across Nigeria. Through strategic collaborations with IITAโs specialized crop breeding programs of yam, cassava, maize, soybean, cowpea, plantain, and banana, the outreach addressed critical challenges, introduced innovative techniques,…

