By Hauwa Umar
The Niger State Agricultural and Mechanisation Development Authority (NAMDA) has unveiled a TELA maize variety to promote adoption and boost farmers’ productivity.
Mr Abdullahi Ndafogi, Deputy Director of Research at NAMDA, said this during a green field day exercise in Minna on Wednesday.
The event was organised to educate farmers on the new variety, tagged SAMMAZ 72T, and its potential benefits.
Ndafogi said the variety had high yield potential, drought resistance and tolerance to pests.
He said it could produce 9.4 tonnes per hectare, above the reported national average yield of six tonnes per hectare.
He added that the exercise would familiarise farmers with the variety and promote good agronomic practices for optimum production.
Ms Hassana Garba, Director of Extension at NAMDA, said the programme aimed to expand TELA maize production because of its high yield potential.
Garba said the variety was introduced for cultivation about two years ago through the Niger Foods Programme, where it recorded high yields.
She said the exercise also featured 10 cowpea varieties for trials, allowing farmers to assess them for possible adoption.
Garba said farmers were also sensitised on the importance of using quality seeds and practising backyard gardening to improve productivity and food security.
Also, Hajiya Alfa underscored the importance of home gardening and called for greater participation of women in the practice.
The event featured tours of the centre’s research, acquisition, fisheries and forestry units. (NAN)
Edited by Rabiu Sani-Ali
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