TheCable

The federal government says it has approved the commercial release and open cultivation of ‘Tela Maize’, a transgenic insect-resistant maize variety, as well as other high-yielding crop varieties.

Speaking at a news conference in Abuja on Tuesday, Uche Nnaji, minister of innovation, science and technology, said the maize variety is also drought-tolerant.

The Tela Maize is said to be a product of modern agricultural biotechnology, developed by the Institute of Agricultural Research (IAR) in partnership with the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF).

The minister said the commercialisation of the crops is a significant step toward increasing agricultural productivity and ensuring Nigeria’s food security.

“It exemplifies our commitment to harnessing the power of biotechnology in addressing pressing challenges, enhancing crop resilience, and improving the livelihood of our farmers and citizens,” Nnaji said.

“It also strengthens our position in the global agricultural landscape, fostering economic stability and opening new avenues for trade and export.”

Nnaji added that the benefits of the release are far-reaching, promising increased crop yields and resistance to pests and diseases, reduced environmental impact, and improved nutrition content.

He urged all stakeholders, including farmers, extension workers, and private sector partners, to embrace the new crop varieties for a more prosperous, sustainable, and food-secure future for Nigeria.

He added that the efforts by the National Biotechnology Development Agency (NABDA) are pivotal in advancing the agricultural sector as well as innovative scientists, researchers, experts, institutions, and foreign collaborators.

On his part, Abdullahi Mustapha, director-general of NABDA, said the agency would not back down on its commitment to utilising biotechnology in tackling the diverse socio-economic issues that impede sustainable national development.

Mustapha said NABDA is well-positioned to contribute to the economic growth of the country.