The National Agricultural Extension and Research Liaison Services (NAERLS), a unit of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, achieved a significant milestone in 2024 by reaching over 10,000 farmers, students, and youths across the country. This was accomplished through the distribution of extension publications, including bulletins, guides, posters, and journals tailored to address the needs of end-users in the agricultural sector.
The achievement was disclosed by the outgoing Assistant Director of Training and Outreach, Professor M. M. Jaliya, in his handing-over note to the incoming Assistant Director, Professor A. A. Jamilu.
In his statement, Professor Jaliya highlighted the institute’s commitment to bridging the gap between agricultural research and field practice. He credited the success to the dedication of the NAERLS team to the strategic dissemination of knowledge-based materials. “Our focus has always been on empowering farmers and other stakeholders with the information they need to improve productivity and sustainability,” he remarked.
Under Professor Jaliya’s leadership, the institute expanded its outreach efforts by leveraging publications designed to address critical agricultural challenges. The materials covered various topics, including crop management, pest control, sustainable farming practices, and youth engagement in agriculture.
The incoming Assistant Director, Professor Jamilu, commended his predecessor for his efforts and vowed to build on the successes achieved in recent years. “I am honoured to take up this responsibility, and I assure all stakeholders that we will continue to prioritize effective extension services to drive agricultural development,” Professor Jamilu said.
Farmers who benefited from the initiative expressed gratitude for the timely resources that improved their farming practices. One recipient noted, “The guides and bulletins have helped me in adopting better techniques and boosting my crop yields.”
The NAERLS initiatives align with national goals of enhancing food security and promoting sustainable agricultural practices through research, innovation, and effective knowledge transfer.
With this achievement, the institute reaffirmed its pivotal role in transforming Nigeria’s agricultural landscape and empowering the next generation of farmers and stakeholders.
