Experts Promote Hybrid Seeds for Food Security in Kaduna

In Kaduna, agricultural experts and stakeholders emphasized the necessity for Nigerian farmers to adopt improved and certified hybrid seeds to boost crop yields and enhance food security. During a field demonstration of TELA hybrid maize, they highlighted that access to quality planting materials is vital for reducing production losses.

Temidayo Owoeye, Managing Director of EcoBasic Seed, stated that the quality of seeds is a crucial determinant of crop performance. He noted that farmers could significantly increase their harvests by using quality hybrid seeds alongside appropriate agronomic practices.

Owoeye urged farmers to prioritize seed quality and called for sustained investments in agriculture to tackle unemployment and create economic opportunities for Nigeria's youth. The demonstration also allowed participants to observe TELA maize, a genetically modified variety designed to resist fall armyworm and improve drought tolerance, showcasing its potential benefits in addressing major constraints in maize production.