The Federal Government has granted approval for the commercial release and widespread cultivation of a groundbreaking maize variety, known as Tela Maize. This innovative maize strain, developed by researchers at the Institute for Agricultural Research, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, showcases resilience against fall armyworm, stem borers, and a commendable tolerance for moderate drought conditions.
The momentous decision transpired during the 33rd meeting of the National Committee on Naming, Registration, and Release of Crop Varieties, Livestock breeds/Fisheries (NCNRRCVLF) held in Ibadan. Chaired by Prof. Olusoji Olufajo, the committee greenlit four novel varieties: SAMMAZ 72T, SAMMAZ 73T, SAMMAZ 74T, and SAMMAZ 75T.
These cutting-edge maize varieties offer drought tolerance and resistance to stem-borers and fall armyworm, promising a yield advantage of up to 10 tonnes per hectare. Under optimal agronomic practices, they surpass the national average for similar hybrids, which stands at 6 tonnes per hectare.
The Tela Maize varieties have proven particularly well-suited for cultivation in Rain Forest, Guinea, and Sudan Savannas, positioning them as potential game-changers for maize production in Nigeria.
Stem-borers and fall armyworm have posed significant challenges to maize production in Africa, with the latter capable of destroying up to 20 million metric tons of maize annually—enough to feed 100 million people. The approval of these varieties comes after the environmental release granted by the National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA) in October 2021.
The development of these innovative varieties was spearheaded by the Institute for Agricultural Research (IAR) Samaru, Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, under the TELA Maize Public-Private Partnership coordinated by AATF.
The TELA Maize Project, currently implemented in five countries—Ethiopia, Kenya, Mozambique, Nigeria, and South Africa—signifies a collaborative effort to address agricultural challenges. The approval in Nigeria marks a significant stride toward tackling challenges faced by farmers across the continent.
Prof Ado Yusuf, Executive Director of IAR, commended the scientists for their dedication, highlighting the extensive research and testing that went into the development of these maize varieties. Dr Canisius Kanangire, Executive Director of AATF, underscored the contribution of TELA Maize to food and nutrition security, aligning with the Federal Government’s Agricultural Transformation agenda.
The release in Nigeria is seen as a major step towards ensuring food and nutrition security, improving the livelihoods of farming households in Africa. Prof. Mustapha Abdullahi, Director-General of the National Biotechnology Development Agency (NABDA), emphasized the potential reduction in pesticide usage on maize, benefitting humans, livestock, and the environment.
Dr Sylvester Oikeh, the TELA Maize Project Manager, expressed encouragement by Nigeria’s decision, urging other African countries to follow suit for the benefit of farmers. The TELA Maize project involves collaboration with various partners, including National Agricultural Research Institutes in Kenya, Mozambique, Ethiopia, and others, and receives funding from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and USAID.
