By| Goodluck E.Adubazi, Abuja.
Nigeria has recorded a major milestone in global agricultural innovation as Professor Chiedozie Ngozi Egesi, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of the National Root Crops Research Institute (NRCRI), Umudike, Abia State, was named among the 2026 Top Agri-food Pioneers (TAP) by the World Food Prize Foundation.
The prestigious recognition, announced as part of activities marking the 40th anniversary of the World Food Prize, celebrates 40 outstanding innovators from 30 countries across six continents whose work is transforming food systems and agriculture worldwide.
Professor Egesi, one of Africa’s foremost agricultural scientists, was honoured for his groundbreaking contributions to cassava breeding, biotechnology, genomics, and seed system development.
His research has led to the development and release of numerous improved cassava varieties, including biofortified and climate-resilient cultivars that have enhanced productivity and livelihoods for millions of smallholder farmers across Africa.
As head of the NRCRI, Egesi has spearheaded efforts to integrate modern genomics, digital technologies, and biotechnology into Nigeria’s agricultural sector, positioning the country as a leader in agricultural innovation on the continent.
His pioneering work in molecular breeding, genomic selection, and gene editing has helped bridge the gap between scientific research and practical farming solutions, contributing significantly to food security and sustainable agricultural development.
Reacting to the honour, Professor Egesi expressed gratitude to the World Food Prize Foundation, describing the recognition as a tribute to the collective efforts of scientists, institutions, and farming communities working to transform agriculture in Africa.
“I am deeply humbled and sincerely grateful to the World Food Prize Foundation for recognizing me as one of the 2026 Top Agri-food Pioneers.
This honour reflects not only my personal journey but also the collective efforts of many outstanding individuals and institutions committed to transforming agriculture through science, innovation, and partnership,” he said.
The renowned cassava breeder noted that his achievements were made possible through collaborations with local and international agricultural institutions, universities, extension agencies, private-sector partners, researchers, and farmers.
He pledged to continue advancing innovations aimed at developing improved cassava varieties, strengthening food systems, and improving farmers’ livelihoods across the continent.
Professor Egesi is also credited with playing a key role in securing Nigeria’s first permit for the field evaluation of genetically modified cassava. His collaborative research initiatives with global institutions such as Cornell University and the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) have further strengthened agricultural research networks across Africa.
In another boost for Nigeria, Raphael Mrode was also named among the 2026 Top Agri-food Pioneers in recognition of his contributions to dairy cow genetics and breeding.
The inclusion of Egesi and Mrode among the world’s leading agricultural innovators underscores Nigeria’s growing prominence in global agricultural research and highlights the nation’s expanding role in advancing food security, scientific innovation, and sustainable development.
The recognition of two Nigerians among the 2026 Top Agri-food Pioneers signals the country’s rising influence in shaping the future of agriculture and food systems, reinforcing its position as a key contributor to global efforts aimed at combating hunger and ensuring sustainable food production for future generations.
