Kick-off Meeting for Japan-Supported Yam Research Project at IITA
2026/8/26
On 12 August, Mr. KOZAKI Hitoshi, Deputy Head of Mission of the Embassy of Japan in Nigeria, attended the kick-off meeting of the project “Improving Food Security and Nutrition in Africa: Advancing Yam Productivity and Nutritional/Functional Traits”, at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) in Ibadan. This project is sponsored by Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries of Japan.
In his remarks, Mr. Kozaki emphasized the importance of ensuring that research outcomes lead to tangible benefits for farmers and contribute to improved food security and agricultural productivity in Nigeria. He also reaffirmed Japan’s continued commitment to cooperation with IITA and Nigeria in the agricultural sector.
Following the ceremony, Mr. Kozaki visited IITA’s farmland and laboratories, where he received briefings on ongoing research and technological innovation related to yam production.
Japan has maintained close cooperation with IITA for around 30 years and will continue to support efforts toward sustainable agricultural development and improved livelihoods in Nigeria.
In his remarks, Mr. Kozaki emphasized the importance of ensuring that research outcomes lead to tangible benefits for farmers and contribute to improved food security and agricultural productivity in Nigeria. He also reaffirmed Japan’s continued commitment to cooperation with IITA and Nigeria in the agricultural sector.
Following the ceremony, Mr. Kozaki visited IITA’s farmland and laboratories, where he received briefings on ongoing research and technological innovation related to yam production.
Japan has maintained close cooperation with IITA for around 30 years and will continue to support efforts toward sustainable agricultural development and improved livelihoods in Nigeria.