NSPRI Empowers Agri-Preneurs to Drive Job Creation and Postharvest Loss Reduction

The Nigerian Stored Products Research Institute (NSPRI) recently hosted an impactful training session aimed at empowering agri-preneurs at its Lagos Zonal Office on Barikisu Iyede Street, Yaba. This event took place from March 11 to 12, 2025. And it centered around postharvest management, particularly focusing on how to add value to agricultural products like grains, roots, and tubers.

With a hands-on approach making up a whopping 90% of the training, participants got their hands dirty learning to create value-added products such as bean flour, ground rice, odourless fufu, poundo yam, and flavoured pap. The training also delved into essential postharvest management practices and highlighted the importance of packaging in enhancing the value of agricultural goods. On rounding up the programme, the participants were conducted round the NSPRI facilities, where participants had the chance to discover even more postharvest solutions beyond what was covered in the training.

The diverse group of attendees, representing various ages and genders, participated both in person and online. In his closing remarks, the Executive Director of NSPRI, represented by the Lagos Zonal Coordinator, Engr. Dr. Shuaeeb Oyewole, expressed heartfelt thanks to the trainees. He stressed that the skills and knowledge gained during the training could significantly help in reducing agricultural losses, creating job opportunities, and fighting poverty. He also encouraged everyone to become advocates for postharvest loss reduction in their communities.

Participants, including Mrs. Olayinka Immanuel and Mrs. Olubunmi Afolabi, who joined virtually from the United States and Osogbo, Osun State, respectively, shared their gratitude for the enlightening training. Mr. Christopher, a returning participant, praised the training for its focus on practical skills and expressed his eagerness for future sessions.

Everyone left with a commitment to use what they learned to tackle postharvest losses head-on and to foster entrepreneurship, ultimately contributing to job creation and wealth generation in their communities.