By Abdullahi Lukman
A The National Agricultural Seed Council (NASC) has launched a specialized boot camp focused on Plant Variety Protection (PVP) to boost agricultural development and food security in Nigeria.
Twenty-five young Nigerians, selected from a competitive pool of over 77 applicants nationwide, are participating in this intensive training program designed to equip them with crucial knowledge of PVP law and plant breeders’ rights.
The boot camp, organized by the Nigeria Plant Variety Protection Office (NPVPO), an integral part of NASC, underscores the government’s commitment to increasing food production and fostering innovation within the agricultural sector.
Dr. Ishiak Khalid, Acting Director General of NASC, underscored the strategic importance of the 2025 Boot Camp for Youths on Plant Variety Protection for the Development of Agriculture in Nigeria.
Represented by Mallam Ubandoma Hudu, the Director of Seed Certification and Quality Control Department, Dr. Khalid emphasized that the training marks a significant milestone in the collective journey toward raising awareness and advancing knowledge in the effective implementation of the PVP framework in Nigeria.
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He highlighted the progress made in establishing protection for new plant varieties, which is essential for ensuring the sustainability and competitiveness of Nigeria’s agricultural sector through increased investment in plant breeding and innovation.
Dr. Khalid expressed confidence in the selected participants, recognizing their passion, dedication, and potential to become future champions for PVP in Nigeria.
He charged them to actively engage in the program, absorb the learnings, and utilize the acquired knowledge and skills to contribute meaningfully to the growth of the nation’s agricultural landscape.
Folarin Okelola, Registrar of the NPVPO, provided further insight into the boot camp’s objectives.
He explained that the core aim is to educate young people on the importance and relevance of plant variety protection, also known as plant breeders’ rights protection.
This initiative aims to expose the youth to the vast potential of farming and ignite their enthusiasm for embracing agriculture as a viable and rewarding career path.
The boot camp strategically targets young graduates, lawyers, and researchers in the field of agriculture, aiming to build their capacity and enhance their skills.
