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From Jude Chinedu, Enugu
No fewer than 35 women farmers from Enugu and Anambra states have been trained by the Sheda Science and Technology Complex (SHESTCO) on the use of disease-resistant seedlings to improve crop yields.
The training, organised under SHESTCO’s “Seedwise women project,” focused on equipping participants with knowledge of improved seed technologies and modern farming practices.
Speaking at the event, the Deputy Director of the Biotechnology Advanced Research Centre at SHESTCO, Andrew Iloh, said the programme was designed to strengthen community engagement and empower women farmers.
“The programme is designed to educate women on improved seedlings developed through biotechnology, including pest-and disease-resistant varieties such as pod borer-resistant cowpea,” he said.
He noted that the initiative also aims to correct misconceptions surrounding genetically improved seeds.
“These crops undergo rigorous scientific research, regulatory approval, and traditional breeding processes before being released to farmers,” Iloh explained, adding that they are safe for consumption and environmentally friendly.
He said three biotech crops currently approved in Nigeria—Bt cowpea, Tela maize, and Bt cotton—have been certified by relevant regulatory authorities. Iloh emphasised the important role women play in agriculture, describing them as custodians of biodiversity.
“When you train a woman, you train a nation,” he said, noting that participants would also acquire entrepreneurial skills to become “seed champions.”
He added that the programme would enable the women to form cooperatives and small-scale enterprises for the mass production of certified seeds, thereby improving accessibility and affordability for local farmers.
The initiative, he said, aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda on food security and will be expanded nationwide in phases.
Iloh also commended the Managing Director of SHESTCO, Magaji Aliyu, for supporting the project.
Some beneficiaries expressed optimism about the impact of the training. Uche-Euphemia Kanayo said the programme came at a critical time, given the challenges of drought and declining yields.
“The knowledge we have gained on hybrid and disease-resistant seeds will help us improve productivity and reduce losses,” she said.
Another participant, Benedicta Nnaji, described the workshop as enlightening.
“Many farmers are not aware of certified seeds and their benefits. This training has opened our eyes and will help us make better decisions and improve food production,” she added.
