SEED RETREAT 2020
A National Seed Retreat was held on the 27th February, 2020 at the Institute of Agricultural Research, ABU, Zaria. The retreat was convened as a forum for strategic discourse to understand the reflections of stakeholders in the seed industry; to plan, evaluate, as well as address the prospects and challenges of the seed industry in Nigeria.
The retreat was declared open by the Hon. Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Alhaji Sabo Nanono, who delivered the key note address. Goodwill messages were presented by The Senate Chairman on Agriculture; The Honourable Chairman, House Committee on Agricultural Production and Services; The House Committee Chairman, House Committee on Agricultural Colleges and Institution; Seed Entrepreneurs Association of Nigeria (SEEDAN) and All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN).
Over 200 participants drawn from the National Assembly, Seed Companies, Regulatory Agencies, National Agricultural Research Institutes, CGIAR organizations, International NGOs, Advocacy Groups, Farmers, Press and Financial Institutions, attended the retreat.
The objectives of the workshop amongst others were to: Understand the reflections of stakeholders on the industry; Examine the challenges facing the seed industry; Chart a way forward for industry growth and; Develop a roadmap for the seed industry development.
The Hon. Minister also paid a visit to some Seed Companies such as Premier Seeds and Value Seeds.
