AKILIMO
AKILIMO
AKILIMO

AKILIMO success story: sustained impact in Ogun state, Nigeria

AKILIMO success story: sustained impact in Ogun state, Nigeria

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Introduction

When agricultural innovation endures beyond a project’s lifespan, it symbolizes true transformation.
In Ogun State, Nigeria, a lead farmer’s consistent use of IITA’s AKILIMO recommendations has improved productivity and earned formal recognition from the Ogun State Government and Prof. Ruth Oniang’o, Executive Director of the Rural Outreach Program and advocate for women’s empowerment through agriculture.

“The farmer’s dedication to applying AKILIMO recommendations over the years embodies the essence of sustainable agriculture.”
— Prof. Ruth Oniang’o

This recognition underscores a key truth: agricultural innovations remain relevant and effective years after training when institutional systems and farmer motivation align.

Driving Change through the OGADEP–AKILIMO Partnership

Since 2019, the Ogun State Agricultural Development Programme (OGADEP) has promoted AKILIMO technologies, working closely with IITA to strengthen links between research and farmer practice.
In 2020, the Ogun State Ministry of Agriculture officially adopted AKILIMO as an approved extension material, enabling integration into OGADEP’s extension system.

  • 22,000+ farmers reached (31% women)
  • 500+ extension agents and lead farmers trained
  • Improved fertilizer efficiency, planting density, intercropping, and post-harvest management

These results show that AKILIMO’s value extends beyond agronomy to market and input linkages—fueling local economic empowerment.

AKILIMO: From Tool to Transformative Model

Initially a digital decision-support system for cassava farmers, AKILIMO provides:

  • Customized fertilizer recommendations
  • Best practices for planting and weed control
  • Optimal intercropping methods
  • Scheduled planting and harvesting timelines

“Our commitment at IITA is to empower farmers with innovative tools like AKILIMO that deliver practical, science-based solutions.”
— Thompson Ogunsanmi, AKILIMO–OGADEP Coordinator

Over time, AKILIMO evolved into a partnership-driven platform uniting public extension systems, private sector actors, and farmer organizations.
The Ogun State experience demonstrates how local ownership and sustained collaboration can transform a digital tool into a movement.

Institutional Ownership and Partnership for Sustainability

The enduring success of AKILIMO in Ogun State rests on deliberate efforts to embed innovation within local systems through collaboration with OGADEP.

Key Success Factors

  • Institutional Integration: AKILIMO embedded into OGADEP’s extension tools.
  • Local Ownership: Commitment at state and LGA levels ensures continuity.
  • Community Structures: Lead farmers drive scaling through peer learning.

A major milestone came in 2020 when the Ogun State Ministry of Agriculture adopted AKILIMO as part of its official extension package—ensuring ongoing support and farmer engagement.

Through OGADEP’s network:

  • Over 22,000 farmers served
  • 31% women participants
  • 500+ extension agents trained

At the national level, the AKILIMO Nigeria Association (ANA) coordinates multi-stakeholder scaling, aligning data, strategy, and resources across institutions.

Adapting to Challenges

AKILIMO’s journey has not been without challenges:

  • Limited resources and logistics prompted tighter coordination.
  • Digital literacy gaps required continuous training.
  • Data inconsistencies spurred improved monitoring systems.

These challenges catalyzed innovation—leading to refresher trainings, better digital tools, and stronger partner engagement.
AKILIMO has since diversified its scope to include maize and rice, ensuring broader relevance to farmers’ evolving needs.

A Testament to Enduring Innovation

The story of Ogun State’s recognized farmer reflects what happens when innovation meets commitment and institutional support.
AKILIMO’s evolution proves that agricultural transformation is not about introducing new tools, but about nurturing systems, people, and partnerships that make innovation thrive.

Through collaboration with OGADEP, the continued leadership of ANA, and strong policy integration, AKILIMO continues to:

  • Empower farmers
  • Strengthen institutions
  • Inspire sustainable agricultural transformation

When innovations are locally owned, supported by policy, and embedded within strong institutions, their impact transcends seasons—shaping livelihoods for generations.

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