Agricultural research institutes are vital engines driving innovation in Nigerian farming. Each institute has a unique mandate to tackle specific challenges and improve productivity in key crop areas. Let’s explore the mandates and core crops of four leading Nigerian agricultural research institutes: IAR&T, IITA, CRIN, and NCRI and why their work matters to farmers and food systems.
1. Institute for Agricultural Research & Training (IAR&T) Mandate: IAR&T is tasked with developing sustainable farming systems and improving crop production, especially in the savannah and dryland zones. The institute focuses on increasing food production and farmer income through research in crop improvement, soil fertility, and pest
management. They also develop farming techniques suited for dryland conditions and promote
agroforestry.
Key crops:
Maize, cowpea, sorghum, millet, groundnut, kenaf, and jute.
2. International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) Mandate: IITA works to enhance food security, improve nutrition, and reduce poverty across sub-Saharan Africa by conducting agricultural research focused on tropical crops. They lead in developing climate-resilient, high-yield varieties and in tackling pest and disease outbreaks that threaten food production.
Key crops:
Cassava, yam, maize, soybean, plantain, and banana.
3. Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN)
Mandate:
CRIN is committed to advancing sustainable cocoa production, improving crop quality, and
addressing disease and pest challenges in Nigeria’s tree crop subsector. The institute supports
farmers with better crop varieties and improved post-harvest processing techniques.
Key crops:
Cocoa (primary), cashew, kolanut, coffee, and tea.
4. National Cereals Research Institute (NCRI)
Mandate:
NCRI’s primary mission is to enhance the productivity of major cereal crops to ensure national
food security and reduce dependency on imports. It develops improved crop varieties, promotes better agronomic practices, and supports farmer training programs.
Key crops:
Rice, sorghum, wheat, maize, millet, sugarcane, bambara nut, and acha.
Why Their Work Matters:
These research institutes are not just producing data — they’re delivering real, on-the-ground
solutions. From improved seeds to better soil management and pest control strategies, their work empowers Nigerian farmers to be more productive, climate-resilient, and profitable. Their research also informs government policy and drives innovation across the agricultural value chain.
What’s Next: From Lab to Farm.
In our next post, we’ll explore how the research from these institutes moves from lab to farm and how it directly improves your yield.
We’ll break down how innovations like improved seeds, effective pest control, and climate-resilient farming practices are helping Nigerian farmers grow more with less.
Stay with us!
