Zaria a historic city in Kaduna state Nigeria is home to renowned research institutes with a wide array of research institutions that contribute significantly to the state and the Nation’s knowledge base. One such Research institute standing strong in the heart of Zaria is the National Agricultural Extension and Research Liaison Services (NAERLS) which stands out as a key player in agricultural innovations and technological advancements.

Established in 1963, NAERLS has become a pivotal force in promoting agricultural productivity, sustainable development, and wealth creation across the country. NAERLS was originally founded as a Specialist Service Section under the Ministry of Agriculture in Northern Nigeria. It was created as a formal link between the Ministry and the Institute for Agricultural Research (IAR).

In 1968, The Research Liaison service was transferred to IAR and was renamed Extension and Research Liaison Service (ERLS).In 1975, ERLS was granted autonomy from IAR and was again renamed to Agricultural Extension and Research Liaison Service (AERLS) under Ahmadu Bello University ( ABU) authority.

In 1987 the Federal Ministry of Science and Technology recognized its National significance and restructured AERLS. Transforming it into a National institution and renaming it National Agricultural Extension and Research Liaison Services (NAERLS) which the institute has maintained to date.

This restructuring led to the creation of Five Zonal offices across the country broadening its reach and impact.

Today, NAERLS stands as a beacon of agricultural innovation and research excellence. The institute plays a vital role in driving Nigeria’s Agricultural development through research, extension services, and promotion of sustainable farming practices.

Core Mandates of NAERLS Zaria

1. Pioneering Agricultural Extension Research

By conducting cutting-edge research to enhance and promote the effectiveness of agricultural extension services across Nigeria.

2. Agricultural Performance Assessment

Evaluating farming practices and providing feedback to both farmers and stakeholders to improve productivity.

3. Capacity Building

Training Farmers and agricultural professionals to equip them with the necessary technological skills and tools for delivering impactful extension services.

4. Co-coordinating REFILS

Managing the Research Extension farmers input linkage system (REFILS) which facilitates collaboration between research institutions and farmers.

5. Disseminating Agricultural Innovations

Promotion and distribution of new technologies and methods that improve agricultural sustainability and productivity.

Core Programs in NAERLS Zaria

NAERLS operates seven key programs aimed at improving various facets of agriculture through research, training, and the dissemination of innovations these include

1. Agricultural Communications Research: for enhancing communication between farmers and researchers.
2. Agricultural Extension and Economics: Developing strategies to increase the economic viability of farming.
3. Agricultural Performance and Evaluation: Assessing the efficiency of current agricultural practices.
4. Agricultural Training and Outreach: providing hands-on training for farmers and extension workers.
5. Agricultural Information Management: Managing and analyzing agricultural data to support decision-making.
6. Agricultural policy: shaping policies that foster sustainable agricultural development and innovation.

Zonal Offices and Specialized Departments

To ensure the widespread of impact, NAERLS operates six zonal offices across Nigeria’s different agro-ecological zones which include; Umudike, Ibadan, Maiduguri, Badeggi, Kano, and Port Harcourt. These offices are strategically placed to address the specific agricultural challenges of each region.

Additionally, NAERLS is structured into 7 specialized departments, each focusing on a different aspect of agricultural research and extension they include

1. E- extension department
2. Crop and forestry department
3. Livestock and fisheries department
4. Agricultural Engineering and Irrigation
5. Agricultural extension and economics
6. Food technology
7. Agricultural media

With over 700+ employees including more than 90 engineering specialists, NAERLS is well-equipped to provide comprehensive technical support to farmers across the agricultural value chain.

Leadership at NAERLS Zaria

Over the years, NAERLS has been guided by a series of dedicated leaders who played important roles in the development of the institute

1. Alh. Mallam Yazidi Imrana (1963-1973)
2. Prof. Ajakaye (1990-1994)
3. Prof T. J Arokoyo ( 1999-2000)
4. Mallam S.S Abubakar (2000-2004)
5. Dr. Umaru Mohammed (2004-2008)
6. Prof. S.Z Abubakar (2008-2012)
7. Dr. I. Y Ilu ( 2012-2016)
8. Prof M.K Uthman (2016-2020)
9. Prof. Emmanuel Ikanni (2020 Till date)

The Annual Wet and Dry Season Initiative

One of the major initiatives spearheaded by NAERLS is the annual wet and dry season farming initiative. This project brings together farmers and researchers together to collaborate and address some challenges faced during and after the farming season. Farmers are also provided with incentives such as high-breed seedlings, fertilizers, and insecticides to help them achieve bountiful harvests and boost crop yield. The feedback collected from this season is vital in shaping future agricultural practices and policies.

NAERLS continues to remain a key player in the agricultural progress in Nigeria. Through its strategic programs, specialized departments, and nationwide zonal offices, it remains fully committed to improving the lives of farmers, enhancing agricultural productivity, and ensuring food security. With its priority and focus on research, capacity building, and technical innovations, NAERLS is well-positioned to lead and steer Nigeria’s agricultural sector towards sustainable growth and technological innovations for years to come.

Credit: Mr Godfrey Onagwa – PRO NAERLS