IITA Commends ABUAD's Agricultural Impact, Advocates for Enhanced Collaboration

The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) in Ibadan has lauded the Afe Babalola University Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD) for its remarkable contributions to agriculture and industrial sectors, emphasizing its role in ensuring food security in Nigeria.

During a recent visit to ABUAD, Dr. Kenton Dashiell, Deputy Director General of IITA, expressed admiration for the university’s achievements and its significant investment in advancing agriculture. He highlighted the multi-million naira commitment of ABUAD’s founder, Aare Afe Babalola, SAN, toward enhancing food security and fostering industrialization.

Dr. Dashiell underscored IITA’s intent to strengthen its collaboration with ABUAD, aiming to bolster the university’s global ranking and elevate its status to match prestigious institutions such as Cambridge and Harvard. He assured ongoing support and investment to fortify this partnership and further develop ABUAD’s potential.

Aare Afe Babalola, in his remarks, celebrated his recent recognition alongside Nelson Mandela as one of the most successful self-made individuals globally, according to the University of London. He reaffirmed his commitment to societal development through quality education and innovation.

Babalola also called for increased partnerships with the US and Europe, particularly in manufacturing drugs from ABUAD’s research on African herbs. He argued that these herbal-based drugs offer superior potency and effectiveness compared to foreign alternatives.

Emphasizing ABUAD’s progress and its need for private investment and donor support, Babalola invited investors and grants to further the university’s development. He lauded IITA for its enduring partnership, which he credited with contributing to the university’s impressive infrastructure and growth.

Babalola remarked, "ABUAD has evolved significantly. We seek additional partnerships and support to continue our advancement in research and education, particularly in harnessing the potential of African herbs for drug production."

The visit by IITA highlights the ongoing collaboration between the two institutions, showcasing their joint efforts to advance agricultural and industrial progress in Nigeria.