Maize Farmers in Nigeria will soon get a boost following the development of a new variety that can withstand Drought and pest. The new maize variety known as Tela maize is being developed by researchers at Institute for agricultural research Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.
The lead scientist on the project Professor Rabiu Adamu said Tela maize research trials have reached an advanced stage and will be available to Farmers in 2022.
When released the variety will bring about increased yield, higher income for farmers and enhance food sufficiency in Nigeria. According to statistics 300 million people depend on maize as a source of food, and Nigeria with over 200 million population produces 18 million metric tonnes of maize per annum.
Insects knowns as stem borers and fall armyworms destroy up 20 million metric tonnes of maize. Experts estimate that demand for maize for both industrial and domestic consumption will double by 2025.
It is against this background that the Tela maize a product of biotechnology in modern breeding is being developed. Dr Maimuma Abdul Malik also from the Institute for agricultural research said Tela maize through a genetically modified food is safe because GMO crops have disease resistance traits and health benefits.
Nigeria is the largest maize producer in Africa followed by South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, Mozambique, Uganda and Ethiopia.