Abou holds a PhD degree in Entomology from the University of Lome (Togo Republic) in collaboration with Kobe University (Japan). He received his MSc in Entomology, and a Master’s degree in Project Management.
Abou has previously worked as a Host Plant Resistance Entomologist for Cowpea and Maize at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA). In that role, he collaborated with the breeders to derive improved varieties with insect-pest resistance, and making these varieties accessible to the smallholder farmers across West Africa. His contributions extend to the identification of the Fall Armyworm in West Africa in 2016, and in developing and disseminating Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies against this invasive pest.
Before joining IITA, Abou held positions at the AfricaRice and the International Crop Research Institute for Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT). His extensive professional background centers on researching integrated management options against insect-pests affecting tropical crops, including maize, cowpea, rice, sorghum, groundnut, pearl millet, cotton, fruit trees, and vegetables. Abou is passionate about implementing IPM, including host plant resistance, biological control, cultural practices, and other natural protective strategies. He also brings a wealth of experience to capacity building initiatives for NARES partners across Africa. Furthermore, he has successfully supervised numerous MSc and PhD students in Entomology.
