TASAI Launches Nigeria Seed Sector Study in Abuja

The African Seed Access Index (TASAI) has officially launched its Nigeria Country Study, marking an important step toward generating evidence to support the continued development of Nigeria’s seed sector. This will be the 4th country study, following previous studies in 2017, 2019 and 2021. The study is funded by AGRA and is conducted in collaboration with AGRA’s Center for Excellence in Seed Systems in Africa (CESSA) program. 

From 26th to 27th August 2026, TASAI convened a stakeholder inception mission in Abuja, bringing together key stakeholders from across Nigeria’s seed industry. The objective of the meeting was to introduce the study to the stakeholders and receive their input on the proposed scope, methodology and coverage. The workshop brought together 32 participants representing government institutions, including the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, National Agricultural Seed Council, National Centre for Genetic Resources and Biotechnology (NACGRAB), seed companies, the Seed Entrepreneurs’ Association of Nigeria (SEEDAN), the Institute for Agricultural Research and Training (IAR&T) and a representative from the Agriculture department at the Economic Community for West African States (ECOWAS) secretariat.. The meeting was opened by Hon. Fatuhu Mohammed, Director General of the National Agricultural Seed Council (NASC). 

The Nigeria Country Study forms part of TASAI’s broader work to assess seed systems across several African countries. The study will examine the structure, conduct, and performance of Nigeria’s seed sector, providing empirical evidence on areas of progress, emerging opportunities, and persistent challenges. 

Building on Strong National Partnerships 

Stakeholders contributed insights on developments across Nigeria’s seed system and discussed issues that will help inform the country assessment. The consultations also provided an opportunity to review the proposed scope of the TASAI study and ensure that it reflects the realities and priorities of Nigeria’s seed sector. 

Participants explored topics including seed production and certification, access to early generation seed, variety commercialization, digital traceability, seed inspection, and the evolving role of private-sector seed enterprises. 

The Assistant Director of Seed Certification at NASC delivered a presentation and provided updates on the status of NASC’s seed quality assurance activities. The presentation also provided an update on the status of two key initiatives: the Seed Tracker and SeedCodex. 

The ensuing discussions highlighted the significant progress taking place within Nigeria’s seed industry, including efforts to strengthen seed quality assurance, improve traceability, and expand private-sector participation. They also underscored the importance of reliable data and continued collaboration among government, research institutions, seed enterprises, and industry associations. 

From Evidence to Action 

Ultimately, the study is intended to contribute to a stronger understanding of Nigeria’s seed system and help inform future policy, investment, and industry development. 

Through this collaborative process, TASAI aims to support a more competitive, responsive, and effective seed sector—one capable of expanding farmers’ access to quality seed and contributing to Nigeria’s broader agricultural transformation.