As part of efforts to strengthen food security and agricultural innovation, the Federal Government, through the National Agricultural Seed Council (NASC), has commenced a specialized boot camp on Plant Variety Protection (PVP) for 25 young Nigerians. The training, organized by the Nigeria Plant Variety Protection Office (NPVPO), aims to equip 25 selected participants with knowledge of PVP laws and plant breeders’ rights, fostering sustainable agricultural practices and investment in plant breeding.
Speaking at the opening ceremony on Monday, Dr. Ishiak Khalid, Acting Director General of NASC, represented by Mallam Ubandoma Hudu, Director of Seed Certification and Quality Control, emphasized that the training represents a major step toward transforming Nigeria’s agricultural landscape.
He said; “You have been selected from a pool of over 77 applicants across Nigeria. This is not just about learning, it is about taking responsibility for the future of our food systems. You are here to develop solutions that will shape the next era of Nigerian agriculture.
“I encourage you all to engage in the training, ask critical questions, and embrace the opportunity to lead the charge in modernizing Nigeria’s agricultural sector.”
The Registrar of NPVPO, Dr. Folarin Okelola, in an interview with newsmen, restated that PVP is a game-changing strategy that will increase productivity, encourage research, and incentivize the development of high-yield, climate-resilient crops.
“Plant breeders are the backbone of agricultural innovation. Yet, their work has often gone unrecognized. By protecting their innovations, we encourage more research, attract investment, and boost food production,” Okelola stated.
He further emphasized that embracing PVP could increase Nigeria’s agricultural output up to five times. This, he said, would not only ensure national food security but also position Nigeria as a major exporter of agricultural products.
The bootcamp supported by the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA), recognizes the need for young minds to take over from an ageing farming population.
Meanwhile Dr. Esther Ibrahim, AGRA’s representative, expressed excitement over the initiative, stating that investing in young agricultural professionals is crucial for the country’s long-term food security goals.
“The future of farming depends on fresh, innovative thinkers. We must build a pipeline of young experts who can introduce modern, efficient agricultural practices. This training is the first step toward that vision,” she noted.
As climate change, population growth, and global food insecurity continue to challenge traditional farming methods, Nigeria must embrace science, research, and innovation to safeguard its food supply. The PVP boot camp is more than just a training, it is a launchpad, for a new era in Nigerian agriculture.
These 25 young professionals, will not only gain knowledge but also serve as catalysts for agricultural transformation, developing high-yield crops, reducing post-harvest losses, and strengthening Nigeria’s position in the global agricultural economy. The seeds of change have been planted; now, these young professionals must turn knowledge into solutions that will secure Nigeria’s agricultural future.