Bridging the gender gap in maize breeding: A call for inclusive agricultural research in Nigeria

Maize is crucial to food security and economic sustainability in Nigeria and Africa. While improved maize varieties have the potential to boost agricultural productivity and profitability, their adoption is shaped by various social and economic factors. Recent studies emphasize the need for a gender-responsive approach to maize breeding to ensure that both women and men benefit equally from advancements in agricultural research.

A recent literature review by IITA–CGIAR scientists on maize breeding programs in Nigeria highlights a significant gap in addressing social norms that influence farmers’ preferences for specific maize traits and their access to improved seeds. A senior scientist and gender specialist, Steven Cole, who was part of the review team, proposed that despite ongoing efforts to incorporate gender equality into research, many breeding programs fail to fully consider gender-specific trait preferences, unintentionally reinforcing existing inequalities.

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