(Ecofin Agency) - The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) says it has launched a new research station at Ago-Owu in Osun State Nigeria. This is in line with efforts by the company to expand its research agenda with the aim of improving agricultural productivity and job creation.

In detail, the facility will mostly carry out research on cassava, maize, yam, soybean, banana/plantain and cowpea.

“This research facility is part of our strategy to take research closer to the people. Our plan is to make this station a one-stop shop where farmers’ needs will be addressed. We will also be using the facility to train Nigerian youths in agribusiness,” said Nteranya Sanginga, IITA’s Director General.

This new facility is the sixth of its kind to be established in Nigeria.

Let’s be reminded that in 2015, the Governor of Osun State, Rauf Aregbesola, in a bid to help transform the agricultural sector of the state, donated 205.5ha of land to the institute. Afterwards IITA entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the state government and began investment on the land together with the development of roads, amongst others.

Anita Fatunji