The Institute for Agricultural Research (IAR), Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, has demonstrated an improved maize variety to boost food security in Nigeria.

The new high-yield technology, one of several varieties developed by the agric institute, is scientifically designed to resist pests and is drought-tolerant.

Unveiling the new technology on Wednesday during a Farmers’ Green Field Day in Bichi Local Government Area of Kano State, Professor Ado Yusuf, a senior researcher with the Institute, said the practical demonstration was part of the process to acquaint farmers with the new technology.

According to Professor Yusuf, the field day also enabled a practical demonstration of the benefits of the institute’s latest maize technology directly to farmers.

Professor Yusuf highlighted that IAR’s mandate is to produce early-generation breeder seeds and foundation seeds, which private seed companies can multiply and distribute nationwide.

“Whenever we develop a new technology, we bring it to the field so farmers can see its advantages. Instead of keeping these varieties on our shelves, we extend them to farmers.”

“There are over 200 seed companies in Nigeria. Once they collect these seeds from us and multiply them, farmers across the country should have no problem accessing certified seeds.”

Addressing concerns about genetically modified (GM) crops, Yusuf clarified that Nigeria currently has only three approved and commercialized GM crops: Bt cotton, pod-borer-resistant cowpea (Sampi 20T), and Tella maize (SAMMAZ 75T).

He stressed that Nigeria’s National Biosafety Management Agency ensures all GM crops meet rigorous global safety standards.

Principal investigator Professor Rabiu Adamu said the new maize hybrids could help Nigeria overcome food insecurity.

“This maize yields 7–8 tons per hectare and matures in 90 to 95 days. It is drought-tolerant and resistant to fall armyworm and stem borer, two of the most destructive maize pests,” Adamu noted.

“Farmers using the hybrid can save up to ₦70,000 per hectare on insecticides while protecting their health and the environment.”

Sunusi Dankawu, a Bichi farmer, praised the early-maturing, pest-resistant traits. He said, “These varieties clearly outperform our local maize. We faced no real challenges except the experimental planting pattern.

“People come to see and appreciate the varieties. We only need to add some micronutrients, but the yield and quality are excellent,” Dankawu added.