'Game Changer' Biotech Maize to Boost Food Security
The National Committee on Naming, Registration and Release of Crop Varieties approved the open cultivation of TELA Maize at its Jan. 11 meeting in Ibadan.
ABUJA, Nigeria - The recent commercial release of genetically modified, insect-resistant and drought-tolerant maize varieties known as TELA Maize will be a "game changer for food security in Nigeria," according to National Biotech Development Agency Director General Abdullahi Mustapha, writes Winston Mwale.
The National Committee on Naming, Registration and Release of Crop Varieties approved the open cultivation of TELA Maize at its Jan. 11 meeting in Ibadan.
Mustapha said the transgenic maize's adoption will substantially reduce pesticide use, benefiting humans, livestock and the environment. It also will improve crop yields to enhance food security.
"The drought resistance and built-in pest protection will be key to improving production for Nigerian farmers," Mustapha said.
TELA Maize provides a yield advantage of up to 10 tonnes per hectare compared to conventional varieties. It exhibits strong resistance against stem borers and fall armyworms, which have reduced maize production and destroyed up to 20 million metric tonnes of maize annually across Africa.
"The release of TELA Maize is a breakthrough for using biotechnology to increase food production," Mustapha said.
He added that the insect-resistant, drought-tolerant maize will raise farmers' incomes and support Nigeria's economic growth.
The National Biotech Development Agency head said TELA Maize's approval opens the door for commercializing other genetically modified crops that can address agricultural challenges in Nigeria and enhance long-term food security.
The TELA Maize was developed by scientists at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture and the African Agricultural Technology Foundation.