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Nigeria has launched a variety of maize called, TELA Maize as part of efforts to secure the future of the nation’s agriculture and food security.
At the unveiling of the maize varieties in Abuja, the Minister of Agriculture and Food security Dr Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi said the introduction of TELA Maize to the farming systems was a game-changer that would transform the country’s agricultural landscape and that of the Africa continent.
He explained that the variety has the capacity to increase productivity, with yields of up to 10 tons per hectare compared to the current average yield of about 3 tons per hectare from conventional maize varieties.
“Given our national deficiency in maize production estimated at 6 million metric tons per annual, this variety will gradually close up that deficit in the next three years if 1.5 million hectares of our six million hectares is planted to TELA maize. This averages to an additional increase of 10.5 million metric tons bring our national production to over 20 million metric tons and thus making Nigeria not only self-sufficient but can export around 2 million metric tons every year. This significant increase underscores the transformative potential of technology such as this TELA Maize, for our farmers and our nation”Sabi maintained.
The Executive Director African Agricultural Technology Foundation, AATF Dr. Canisius Kanangire said the unveiling which was made possible through collaborative efforts of AATF, the Federal Government and other private partners indicated the importance of technology in the development process of the country.
According to him the TELA Maize varieties would boost maize yields, as pesticide use would be reduced thereby providing more food and income for the Nigerians farmers.
The Minister of Health Prof Mohammed Ali Pate, addressing the challenge of pest infestation which had been a nightmare for small holder farmers in Africa including Nigeria, pledged the ministry’s support to any technology or initiative that would promotes good health.
The Chair, AATF Board of Trustees, Prof. Aggrey Ambali who appreciated the collaborative effort of all the partners remarked that the approval of TELA Maize and other biotech crops would enhance food security and places the country high in food sustainability.
Reporting by Rabi Momoh; Editing by Daniel Adejo/RadioNigeria