The Nation Newspaper

Category: Agriculture

  • Ogbomoso set to become cashew hub as agropreneur aims for three million trees

    Ogbomoso set to become cashew hub as agropreneur aims for three million trees

    In a bid to promote sustainable agriculture and economic empowerment, Tobiloba Olagbende, CEO of Witford Nigeria Limited, has announced a bold initiative to plant 3 million cashew trees in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, over the next five years.

     Spearheaded by Witford Agro Services, the programme aims to train and equip youths and women in the community with modernised cultivation techniques, providing them with the necessary resources to make cashew farming a profitable venture.

    The initiative, which commenced in April, began with a series of training sessions aimed at ensuring the appropriate knowledge and skillset is passed across to all participants before planting season in September. 

    Olagbende explained that the project is designed to educate the underserved population on the lucrativeness of cashew farming, providing them with modernised cultivation techniques to ensure bountiful harvests. Participants will also receive cashew seedlings and bedding materials to support their new ventures.

    “Our goal is to equip 100,000 youths and women in Ogbomoso with the skills and resources to cultivate cashew as a viable cash crop,” he said.  

    “We believe this will not only uplift families by creating a source of income but also position Oyo State as a major producer and exporter of high-quality cashew nuts.”

    Witford Nigeria Limited has been a key player in the cashew planting industry since its inception in 2016. 

    The company has focused on advancing sustainable agriculture in Oyo State, ensuring that the benefits of this venture reach those who need it most. 

    According to Olagbende, the new initiative is a natural extension of the company’s long-term commitment to the community.

    “What inspired me to pursue this project was witnessing the untapped potential of Ogbomoso’s fertile lands and the eagerness of its people to learn and grow,” he shared. “Cashew farming is an opportunity to transform lives, and with the right training and support, these farmers can produce cashew that meets international standards, making Oyo State a hub for cashew export in Nigeria.”

    Read Also: Empowering Nigeria’s cashew farmers: A closer look at industry challenges, opportunities

    The training program focuses on best practices for cashew cultivation, covering everything from planting techniques to pest control and post-harvest handling. Olagbende emphasized that the initiative is not just about increasing cashew tree numbers but also about equipping participants with the knowledge to achieve high yields and quality produce.

    “We want to ensure that the cashew grown here in Ogbomoso can compete on the global stage,” he said. “By training the next generation of cashew farmers, we are creating a sustainable future for the agricultural sector in Oyo State.”

    The impact of this initiative is expected to extend beyond Ogbomoso. Olagbende believes that by empowering local farmers with modern agricultural knowledge, the entire cashew value chain in Nigeria will benefit. This could ultimately boost the country’s position in the international cashew market, where demand for high-quality produce continues to rise.

    “Empowering these 100,000 youths and women will have a ripple effect on the agricultural industry, creating new job opportunities, enhancing local economies, and driving growth in the sector,” Olagbende noted.

     “We see this as a pivotal step towards making Nigeria a top exporter of cashew and its byproducts.”

    With the initial phase of the initiative already underway, anticipation is high among participants on the potential impact of the project on their lives and their communities. The company’s outreach efforts have already generated interest from communities across Ogbomoso, eager to take part in this transformative project.

  • Mechanised agriculture way out for Nigeria

    Mechanised agriculture way out for Nigeria

    By Gbenga Omole

    Nigeria is in trouble. It has been for a long time. We have only been patching things up. But now it has blown in our faces and I believe mechanised agriculture has immense potential to transform Nigeria’s economy by increasing food production, boosting efficiency, and creating employment opportunities. 

    Nigeria has 774 local government area; let there be directive from  the federal government for each local government to cultivate just 100 hectares of land with what ever is suitable for their region with proper monitoring.

    Nigeria needs to go to high breed animal breeding and high yield crops quickly because we keep growing mathematically but our agricultural is growing arithmetically. 

    All over the world any serious country will tactically and seriously deal with food crisis before anything.

    As one of the most populous countries in Africa, Nigeria faces a growing demand for food, which often surpasses local production and leads to dependence on imports. This dependence strains foreign exchange reserves and contributes to food insecurity. Mechanised agriculture offers a pathway toward self-sufficiency and economic development, addressing these challenges by optimising the agricultural sector and making it more competitive.

    One of the primary benefits of mechanised agriculture is the increase in productivity it offers. Unlike traditional farming methods, which rely on manual labour, mechanised agriculture uses advanced tools and machinery to plant, cultivate, and harvest crops. With equipment such as tractors, plows, and harvesters, farmers can manage larger plots of land and significantly reduce the time and effort needed to complete tasks.

    In a country where agriculture accounts for about 25 percent of the GDP but still relies on manual labour, mechanisation can revolutionise farming. By allowing farmers to scale their operations, it enables higher yields and greater consistency in production. Mechanisation also reduces labor costs, which is especially significant in Nigeria, where rural-to-urban migration has created a shortage of farm labourers. The lower labor demands of mechanised farming can make agriculture a more attractive and viable business for smallholders and large-scale farmers alike.

    Nigeria imports large amounts of rice, wheat, and other staple foods to meet its food demands. This dependence on imports is costly and leaves the country vulnerable to global market fluctuations. Mechanised agriculture can play a crucial role in improving food security by making local farming more productive and reducing reliance on imports.

    With mechanised equipment, Nigerian farmers can produce higher quantities of staple foods, potentially meeting the local demand and even generating surpluses for export. Increased food production stabilises prices and enhances the affordability of basic commodities, improving food security and enabling Nigeria to build more robust reserves. Additionally, becoming less dependent on imported food items would reduce the outflow of foreign exchange, conserving national resources that could be invested in other sectors.

    While mechanisation reduces manual labour requirements, it does not necessarily lead to job losses. Instead, it creates a demand for a different set of skills related to operating, maintaining, and repairing agricultural machinery. This shift presents an opportunity for job creation, as individuals will need to be trained in the technical aspects of modern farming equipment.

    Mechanised agriculture can spur the growth of agro-mechanic businesses, workshops, and vocational training programs, promoting skill development among Nigeria’s youth. As more people acquire technical expertise in agricultural machinery, they can secure employment as operators, mechanics, or trainers. Additionally, the agribusiness value chain will expand, generating new job opportunities in areas like transport, storage, and processing. This diversification can help to reduce unemployment, particularly in rural areas, and contribute to the economic development of local communities.

    Nigeria’s agriculture has historically contributed significantly to its export earnings. Mechanisation has the potential to revive this trend by enabling farmers to grow more export-worthy crops and improve their quality. With improved productivity and the ability to cultivate a wider variety of crops, Nigeria could enhance its export offerings and reduce its reliance on oil as the primary revenue source.

    By becoming a more competitive player in international markets, Nigeria could generate additional revenue, contributing to foreign exchange earnings. Export-oriented agriculture would also attract foreign investments, especially in agribusiness, and create trade partnerships. These economic benefits would strengthen the Nigerian economy, reduce the country’s trade deficit, and enhance its resilience against global economic fluctuations.

    Mechanised agriculture can promote sustainable practices that reduce the environmental impact of farming. Precision agriculture technologies, which are often integrated into mechanised systems, allow farmers to monitor and manage their resources more efficiently. For instance, GPS-equipped tractors can optimise field coverage, while advanced irrigation systems can prevent water wastage.

    In Nigeria, where deforestation and land degradation pose significant environmental challenges, mechanised agriculture can minimise these issues. By using machinery that helps conserve soil and water, farmers can adopt practices that protect the environment and ensure the long-term sustainability of agriculture. Additionally, mechanised agriculture often incorporates conservation tillage and crop rotation, both of which are beneficial for maintaining soil fertility and preventing erosion.

    Despite its benefits, mechanised agriculture in Nigeria faces challenges that hinder its widespread adoption. High costs of machinery, limited access to finance, and inadequate infrastructure are significant barriers for many farmers. Most smallholder farmers cannot afford to purchase or maintain mechanised equipment, which restricts the impact of mechanisation on a national scale. Additionally, inadequate rural infrastructure—such as poor road networks—limits access to machinery, spare parts, and technical support.

    To overcome these challenges, the Nigerian government, along with private and international organisations, must develop supportive policies and funding mechanisms. Subsidies, grants, and low-interest loans could make machinery more affordable for smallholder farmers. Public-private partnerships can also improve infrastructure and establish equipment leasing facilities that provide access to machinery without requiring outright purchases. Creating these supportive frameworks can drive mechanisation adoption across different scales of farming in Nigeria.

    For mechanised agriculture to be effective, the Nigerian government must play an active role in creating an enabling environment. Policy interventions could include tax incentives for importing agricultural machinery, reducing import duties, and offering subsidies to make mechanisation more accessible to farmers. Agricultural research and extension services are also critical, as they can provide farmers with knowledge on the best practices in mechanised agriculture, thereby maximising the benefits.

    Additionally, investing in rural electrification and water infrastructure would support the mechanisation process. The government could also establish mechanisation centers in strategic agricultural zones, where farmers can access machinery, training, and repair services. These investments and policy adjustments would make mechanised agriculture more feasible and sustainable in Nigeria, fostering growth in the sector and empowering farmers to embrace new technologies.

    The private sector has a key role in advancing mechanised agriculture by bringing innovations in agri-tech to Nigeria. Companies specializing in agricultural machinery and equipment could offer affordable leasing options, making mechanization more accessible to smallholder farmers. Moreover, innovations in digital technology, such as mobile platforms that facilitate the booking of farm equipment, could increase machinery utilisation rates and enhance efficiency.

    Partnerships between agribusinesses, technology companies, and farmers could also lead to the development of customised mechanisation solutions tailored to Nigeria’s specific agricultural needs. By integrating data analytics, artificial intelligence, and other digital tools, these collaborations could drive precision farming and optimise resource use, further boosting productivity and profitability.

    Climate change poses a serious threat to Nigeria’s agriculture, affecting crop yields and creating uncertainty for farmers. Mechanised agriculture can play a crucial role in building resilience against these challenges by enabling farmers to adopt practices that minimise risks associated with climate variability. For example, climate-smart machinery can help manage water use efficiently and support the cultivation of drought-resistant crops.

    Mechanised agriculture also allows for quicker responses to changing weather patterns. With advanced equipment, farmers can complete field tasks rapidly, avoiding crop losses due to unexpected rains or dry spells. This adaptability can help mitigate the adverse effects of climate change, ensuring that agriculture remains a viable economic activity in Nigeria despite environmental uncertainties.

    We have no choice, but to breathe life into our abandoned farm resettlements, create new ones and give the incentives to drive this game-changing formula. President Bola Tinubu must personally drive this formula.

    Snr Apostle Gbenga Omole is of  C and S Agojesu Church, Houston, Texas, USA.

  • AATF, partners boost climate-smart rice farming

    AATF, partners boost climate-smart rice farming

    African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF) has teamed up with global and regional partners to empower women and youth in the rice sector.

    The initiative will provide businesses with precise climate data to guide rice farming decisions, particularly in planting, irrigation, and pest control, to improve productivity and resilience.

    It will deliver weather insight, such as rainfall forecasts, temperature patterns, and seasonal trends via Internet platform and SMS notifications, helping farmers make informed choices to enhance yields and reduce climate-related risks.

    This will lead to more sustainable rice production, with higher income for farmers.

    Funded by Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation’s Grand Challenges initiative, the project brings together Michigan State University (MSU), Kenya’s Cereal Growers Association (CGA), University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), and Benue State University (BSU).

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    AATF, in a statement by Communication Officer for East and Southern Africa, George Achia, said the Climate-Smart Decision Support System Project would integrate local and satellite data to deliver practical climate insight for rice farmers.

    At the launch in Kirinyaga County, Kenya, AATF’s lead on rice projects,  Dr. Kayode Sanni, noted that youth and women-led rice enterprises have needs for timely climate information across the production cycle.

    This data, he said, would support critical farming decisions, from choosing planting dates to irrigation planning.

    Principal Investigator for the project, Dr. Cecilia Limera, said understanding rainfall patterns and dry spells allows farmers optimise planting schedules and select climate-resilient varieties.

    Climate-related hints on pest and disease outbreak and their expected prevalence enables farmers and MSMEs to anticipate and mitigate risks through timely pest management strategies and use of resistant crop varieties or biological controls,” she said.

    Project Lead from MSU, Dr. Daniel Uyeh, added the project would leverage ground sensors and satellite-based prediction systems to create a climate-smart decision-suppor, enabling farmers to manage water and input efficiently.

    “Our strategy will equip MSMEs with processed climate information, to facilitate efficient irrigation and a data-driven crop management system, which will boost rice production,” he said, adding that the project will develop a user-friendly climate-smart decision-support system using ground sensors.

    The project will work with different stakeholders, like weather agencies and extension services, to give rice businesses the right climate information at the right time. This will help these businesses make better decisions, improve their productivity, reduce risks, and support environmentally friendly farming practices in the rice industry.

  • Cocoa farmers resilient against global price decline

    Cocoa farmers resilient against global price decline

    Nigerian cocoa exporters are currently facing significant challenges as global cocoa prices have experienced a slight decline in recent weeks. The current market price for cocoa stands at $5,388.00 per tonne. This pricing is primarily influenced by commodity futures markets in New York and London, which are driven by the dynamics of supply and demand. Last year, following poor harvests in Ghana and Ivory Coast, cocoa prices reached $4,200 per metric tonne by December, a level not seen since the 1970s. In March, cocoa prices soared to $10,000 (9,235) Euros per metric tonne, surpassing the cost of copper, and in April, it peaked at $12,000 per tonne. Presently, cocoa prices have reverted to approximately $5,000 per tonne. For most of the past decade, until March of this year, cocoa prices remained around $2,500 per metric tonne.

    In an interview with The Nation, Sayina Riman, a former National President of the Cocoa Association of Nigeria (CAN), noted that while global cocoa prices have decreased, local farmers have not been significantly affected, as they continue to sell their produce to exporters in naira.

    He emphasised that the local pricing system  provides a form of hedge that has not affected many cocoa farmers like the exporters. According to him, local farmers sell their beans at the Naira rate to exporters, who subsequently trade them on the global market.

    Read Also: Investors raise long-term stakes on Nigeria’s economy

    The pricing of cocoa is primarily determined by commodity futures markets in New York and London, influenced by supply and demand. However, the sale of cocoa beans varies by country, with differing standards and trading systems across Africa.

    The Director -General , African Centre for Supply Chain, Dr. Obiora Madu, expressed that cocoa prices will continue to fluctuate, as the market is largely controlled by chocolate manufacturers who depend on processors to convert beans into butter and liquor for chocolate production.

    The price for cocoa is chiefly determined at commodity futures markets in New York and London, which are largely driven by supply and demand.

    However, the way cocoa beans are sold is based on different standards in each country, with cocoa trading systems across Africa often varying greatly in their structures.

    According to  him,  Nigeria is  hugely affected because only a few of the exporters sell processed cocoa. He explained that the majority of the exporters sell  raw  beans  rather than  cocoa  butter  and  liquor to global chocolate companies.

    Chairman,Board of Trustees,Cocoa Association of Nigeria(CAN), Dr Victor Iyama explained  that cocoa prices have historically experienced fluctuations that not only influence global markets but also have a direct effect on consumers around the world.

    He emphasised that as a fundamental component in numerous products, variations in cocoa prices impact everything from production expenses to retail pricing.

    In the first quarter of this year, cocoa prices underwent considerable volatility due to crop yields being adversely affected by drought conditions in West Africa. The prices were particularly influenced by climatic factors in Ivory Coast and Ghana. However, by mid-2024, improvements in weather conditions provided some relief, leading to a stabilisation in production and a modest decrease in prices.

    Despite this decline in cocoa prices, consumers continue to encounter high costs for products such as chocolate.

    He pointed out that the repercussions of cocoa price increases from the first and second quarters of the year are only now becoming evident in retail pricing. Manufacturers typically transfer these earlier cost increases to consumers with a time lag, which explains why chocolate prices remain high even after the recent reduction in cocoa prices.

    In September, international Agri Finance   Group, Rabobank warned that  skyrocketing cocoa prices were putting pressure on chocolate producers worldwide, with consumers likely to bear the brunt in the coming months

    In the report ,Soaring Cocoa prices: The worst is yet to come, Rabobank  noted that  there was a “cocoa crisis”.

    The  group highlighted how cocoa commodity prices have reached their highest level in nearly 50 years.

    “Significantly-higher chocolate prices will likely hit shelves over the coming months and going into 2025, providing a major challenge for the chocolate sector, which is already battling a longer-term, structural decline in demand,” the report said.

    Research analyst for Rabobank, Paul Joules, said the surge is driven by a poor harvest in West Africa, which supplies 70 per cent of the world’s cocoa.

    “Cocoa futures peaked at nearly $12,000 per metric tonne early last year,” he explained. “The International Cocoa Organisation (ICCO) reported a 14.2 per cent drop in global production for the 2023/24 season, resulting in a shortage of 462,000 metric tonnes – the lowest cocoa stocks in 22 years.”

    Despite recent price increases, Joules said the cocoa crisis has yet to impact supermarket shelves, but the steep price increase is anticipated to be felt later this year and into next.

    “This would inevitably lead to higher prices for consumers, particularly dark chocolates with higher cocoa content,” he added.

    To manage rising costs, chocolate manufacturers resort to strategies such as shrinkflation (reducing package sizes while maintaining prices) and ‘skimpflation’ (using less cocoa and more fillers).

    “These tactics are often unpopular with consumers but necessary given the circumstances,” said Joules.

    To combat rising costs, Joules said chocolate manufacturers internationally were adopting various strategies.

    “These include ‘shrinkflation’, which is reducing package sizes while maintaining prices, and ‘skimpflation’, which is altering recipes to use less cocoa and more fillers,” he said.

  • ‘Efficient extension system key to sustainable, resilient agriculture’

    ‘Efficient extension system key to sustainable, resilient agriculture’

    Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Aliyu Abdullahi, has said efficient agricultural extension service system promotes sustainable and resilient agriculture.

    He noted that that giving farmers effective extension support will enhance their productivity and income.

    Speaking in Abuja at a technical meeting to review feedback on the proposed Nigeria Agricultural Extension Services Bill, Abdullahi noted that with 70 per cent Nigerians engaged in agriculture, ensuring they get proper technical support is crucial for optimal production.

    The minister stressed importance of extension agents, saying effective extension delivery legislation will advance sustainable agriculture.

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     “Our President, President Bola Tinubu, envisions a nation where no one goes to bed hungry. Extension agents will help farmers achieve sufficiency for this vision,” Abdullahi said.

    He added they assist farmers by promoting Good Agronomic Practice through research findings and innovative techniques to raise yields.

    “The proposed bill is a game-changer in the sector, showing our commitment to improve agriculture”, he said.

    Country Director of Women Farmers Advancement Network (WOFAN) ICON2 Project, funded by Mastercard Foundation, Salamatu Garba, noted efficient extension system raise yields and bring more people and youths.

    This increase in participation, she said, could reduce youth unemployment, boost production and food security.

    “Efficient extension improve farmers’ income and attract more youths into agriculture, thus addressing unemployment and strengthening food sufficiency,” Dr. Garba said.

    The WOFAN-ICON2 Project aims to create sustainable opportunities for 675,000 young Nigerians, aged 18-35 over five years as part of Mastercard Foundation’s Young Africa Works strategy.

  • Body seeks Fed Govt’s attention on rubber plantation

    Body seeks Fed Govt’s attention on rubber plantation

    National Rubber Producers Processors and Marketers Association of Nigeria (NARPPMAN), Southwest zone, has sought attention of the Federal Government on rubber plantation and production.

    It said going back to agriculture would restore the country’s economy.

    The body urged the Federal Government, particularly Southwest governors, to prioritise plantation and production of rubber, to boost the economy.

    Read Also; Monday Sit-at-home: where are Southeast leaders?

    It said no economy in the world could survive without rubber, adding that any economy that relegated rubber would depend on importation of rubber products, which could affect the economy of such nation.

    Speaking in Ibadan at the 5th Odua International Trade Fair, NARPPMAN Vice-President, Evang. Oluwatoyin Jeremiah, said no crop had high value chain than rubber, adding that rubber plantation and production were capable of giving jobs to many unemployed Nigerians if fully utilised.

    He advised the government to give right policies and recognition to rubber, noting that financial institutions must collaborate with the Federal Government in giving financial assistance to rubber farmers.

  • NEPC challenges investors to leverage agricultural opportunities, visits Fashola agribusiness hub

    NEPC challenges investors to leverage agricultural opportunities, visits Fashola agribusiness hub

    The Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) has urged investors at the Oyo-owned Fashola Agribusiness Hub (FABH) to capitalise on the state’s agricultural endowments.

    During an advocacy visit to the 1,200-hectare facility in Fashola Village along the Oyo-Iseyin road, Executive Director/CEO of the NEPC, Mrs. Nonye Ayeni emphasised the importance of maximising the state’s comparative advantage in agriculture, urging investors to register with the NEPC and inprove the lot of the country via non-oil export.

    Representing Ayeni on the advocacy visit was Mrs. Bolanle Emmanuel, the

     Oyo Coordinator of NEPC, who represented Ayeni, led the team to Fashola settlement, noting the significance of the visit, which aimed to assess agricultural output, share export information, and collect data on key investors. 

    The farm, which had been neglected for about 40 years, was revitalised under Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration to promote food security and agribusiness investments in the state.

    Emmanuel commended the investors, stating “You have chosen the right time and place to invest, especially as the country shifts focus to non-oil exports.” 

    She also emphasised the need for investors to register with the NEPC and engage in value addition to their produce.

     “Investors should embrace value addition and register as exporters with the NEPC to contribute to the realization of our ‘Operation Double Your Export’ mantra,” she said.

    She further explained that the NEPC’s role is to promote non-oil exports and that the organisation builds the capacity of exporters through training programs and strategic partnerships. “NEPC is responsible for promoting non-oil exports, and we provide the necessary support for exporters to produce goods and services that meet international standards,” she enlightened.

    She however encouraged investors to formalize their export operations and repatriate proceeds to benefit from NEPC’s export incentives. She highlighted the potential of the Bracharia plant, a high-demand crop that thrives in Oyo State’s climate, reaching maturity in just two months, compared to two years in other regions.

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    During the visit, the Director of Youth Entrepreneurship in Agribusiness Programme (YEAP & STEP), Mr. Popoola Olusola, provided insights into the hub’s facilities and history. 

    He noted that the farm currently hosts 10 investors, including the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), which has planted seven cassava varieties on 70 hectares.

    “The farm is a ‘home away from home’ for investors, with modern infrastructure such as cleared farmland, 22 hours of power supply, luxury homes, and leisure facilities under construction,” Popoola said, stating that the Oyo State government partners with IITA as both an investor and a technical partner at the hub.

    Highlighting IITA’s contributions, Popoola shared that cassava varieties like Obasanjo-2, Game Changer, and TME 419 were planted in August and September 2023. “These high-yield cassava stems can be harvested multiple times, and farmers are trained to grow cassava year-round,” he explained.

    Other investors also shared their experiences. Mr. Isaac Kamar, WAMCO’s farm manager, emphasised Oyo State’s unique advantage in growing Bracharia, which matures in two months locally, compared to two years in other regions. 

    “WAMCO purchases the largest volume of fresh milk from the hub and operates a milk collection center in Iseyin,” Kamar said, adding that Fulani herders have been trained to grow Bracharia to feed WAMCO’s cows.

    Mr. Omotunde Henry, senior agronomist at Brown Hill Limited, explained that the company has harvested over two tons of tomatoes between July and September 2024 and plans to begin exporting tomato powder once processing equipment is cleared from Tincan Port. “Our goal is to produce tomato powder for export,” Henry stated.

    The visit also revealed that FABH’s infrastructure supports various investors. Brown Sugar Limited is cultivating sugarcane on 20 hectares, and Zigma Farms Ltd operates a 30-hectare cashew plantation.

     Mr. Wale Oluwole of Zigma Farms shared that the company is preparing to start processing cashew nuts and juice.

    The Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency (OYSADA) has facilitated this investment-friendly environment by providing amenities such as a good road network, chalets for staff, clinics, and sports facilities.

    NEPC’s team on the advocacy visit also included Mr. Adesina Olukotun, Head Product and Market Development and Miss Oluremi  Agbaje staff of the same department and from Oyo State Government; Mr. Ajetunmobi, the Director Technical Services OYSADA and Mr. Badmos Emmanuel the Facility Manager, FABH. 

    Other investors on the  Fashola farms include: Milking Ban Industry, African Agricultural Technology Foundation, AgricDrive and eFarms Limited.

  • Nigeria on path to self-sufficiency with TELA maize progress

    Nigeria on path to self-sufficiency with TELA maize progress

    Kingstone Mashingaidze, is the Principal Researcher and TELA maize Project Country Coordinator, Agricultural Research Council (ARC), South Africa. In this interview, he spoke on how the adoption of improved technology by African farmers will make the continent self-sufficient in food production.

    You’re here in Nigeria as part of the Trait and Pipeline Testing (TPT) team of the TELA project. What did you find during your visit?

    Well, it’s quite exciting to see that Nigeria is now commercialising TELA products, and these are now in the hands of the farmers. Right here where we are, it’s a demonstration of the TELA hybrids being grown. These varieties are doing exceptionally well, especially in controlling stem borers and the fall armyworm, which are major issues for maize production, particularly for smallholder farmers who can’t afford chemical control due to high costs.

    There were initial concerns in Nigeria after the launch of TELA products. Some people claimed it could cause cancer, harm the environment, or even destroy insects and soil health. How true are these claims?

    These claims are not new; we’ve faced similar concerns in South Africa. However, our farmers have been growing genetically modified (GM) maize since 2000, and there are no proven health issues. In fact, I’m still here, healthy and standing tall. The myths about GM maize causing sickness or harming the environment have no scientific basis. In South Africa, we’ve been using Bt maize to control pests like stem borers and the fall armyworm, and it’s been highly effective.

    For instance, Roundup Ready maize helps with weed control by killing weeds but not the maize. By the time farmers harvest their maize, new weeds may appear, but this has no negative impact on the crop, which means other plants can still grow after the application of Roundup. So, the notion that GM crops prevent other plants from growing is simply not true.

    You mentioned the benefits for smallholder farmers in South Africa. Could you elaborate on the impact GM maize has had on them?

    Absolutely. Smallholder farmers growing Bt maize in South Africa can control fall armyworm without using any pesticides. When you compare yields, farmers using Bt maize see up to a 35 percent increase in income compared to those who don’t. Farmers who don’t use Bt maize experience around a 60 percent reduction in yield due to fall armyworm attacks. So, the economic benefits are clear, especially for smallholder farmers who otherwise struggle to afford pest control.

    Some argue that GM maize is fundamentally different from conventional maize. What’s your take on that?

    Bt maize and conventional maize are fundamentally the same. Before Bt maize is approved for commercial production, it undergoes an equivalence test to ensure it’s no different from conventional maize, except for its resistance to pests like fall armyworm and stem borers. Every time these tests are conducted, the results show that the only difference is pest resistance otherwise, it’s still the same maize.

    In South Africa, you’ve been involved in this project long before other countries within our continent, what has been your key learning, especially for African farmers?

    One key lesson is that Africans should decide for themselves what technologies are best suited for their needs. Too often, we listen to external voices telling us what’s good for us. But if we want our farmers to be productive and achieve food security, we must support them with the latest and best technologies. We cannot allow others to dictate our path, especially those who may benefit from keeping our farmers in poverty. Improving African agriculture is something only we, as Africans, can do for ourselves.

    What’s your message for Nigeria as it begins to adopt GM technologies?

    I’m excited that Nigeria has taken this step. It’s a big move towards food self-sufficiency. In South Africa, despite droughts and other challenges, we are a net exporter of maize because our farmers use advanced technologies. My message to Nigeria is simple: support your farmers to use these technologies. Only then will you achieve true food security.

  • Our target is to reduce food imports in Africa with TELA maize, others – Oikeh

    Our target is to reduce food imports in Africa with TELA maize, others – Oikeh

    Dr. Sylvester Oikeh is the TELA maize Project Manager, African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF), in this interview, he explained how the organisation is targeting to boost food production and reduce imports in Africa with continuous use of improved technology on food crops.

    What prompted the visit by the team of breeders to Nigeria?

    We brought in a team of breeders who developed TELA maize and the WEMA hybrid to evaluate their performance in the field. This evaluation allows breeders to gather feedback from farmers, so they can improve the varieties based on their needs. It also helps the seed system team understand how much seed farmers will need for future planting, ensuring we can prepare and meet their demands.

    Could you explain on what makes the TELA maize  different from other maize varieties?

    TELA maize varieties have been in development since 2008. Initially, we developed it as a drought-tolerant variety, which we called Drought Tego. Over time, we improved it by adding insect protection traits, especially against pests like the Fall Army Worm (FAW), which is a major problem in Africa. This means that TELA maize not only performs well under drought conditions, but also protects itself from pests, reducing the need for farmers to spray chemicals, which is both expensive and hazardous to their health, unlike the conventional maize varieties which doesn’t have resistance over drought and pests.

    What feedback have you received from farmers who have used TELA maize in Nigeria?

    The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. For instance, when we visited farmers in Minna, Niger State, they shared how their local maize varieties were badly affected by drought and pests, but TELA maize performed much better. They were grateful that it protected against FAW, leading to higher yields without the need for excessive spraying. Farmers in Nigeria are celebrating TELA maize because it saves them money and labour while giving them better results.

    There have been concerns from some quarters about the safety of TELA maize, with rumors claiming it causes health issues. How do you respond to these concerns?

    These concerns are unfounded and based on myths. Some people have claimed that eating TELA maize can cause sterility, but that’s simply not true. TELA products have been used in South Africa since 2016, and there’s no evidence to support such claims. If these products were harmful, countries like South Africa, Brazil, Argentina, and the USA would have stopped using them. I want to assure Nigerians that this technology is safe for humans, livestock, and the environment. As a Nigerian, I would never promote a product that would harm my people.

    How has the TELA maize project shaped agronomic practices among farmers?

    TELA maize has introduced a more resilient and efficient way of farming maize. Farmers are seeing the benefits of using this technology, especially in areas prone to drought and pest infestations. In Minna, for example, farmers showed us how their local varieties were devastated by drought, while TELA maize continued to thrive. This technology is reducing the need for pesticides and giving farmers higher yields. The key now is ensuring more farmers have access to the seeds, which is our biggest challenge.

    Speaking of access to seeds, how do you plan to scale up local seed production in Nigeria?

    This year, we have 51 tons of seed available, mostly for promotional purposes. By next year, we hope to increase that to 400 tons, and within four years, we plan to reach 11,000 tons of locally produced maize seed. It’s a gradual process, as this is new technology, but we’re training people and working with seed companies to scale up production. Over time, as local production increases, we’ll reduce importation until we can meet Nigeria’s full demand.

    How significant will TELA maize be in contributing to Nigeria’s maize supply?

    Right now, TELA maize is a small portion of Nigeria’s overall maize production, which stands at around 6 million hectares. However, as we scale up seed production, the impact will grow. It will take time, but we are working hard to ensure that more farmers can access this technology and benefit from its higher yields and resilience to drought and pests. We are excited about the future of TELA maize and look forward to seeing even more farmers benefit from this technology.

  • Polaris Bank, NCF extend tree planting initiative to Abuja, Anambra

    Polaris Bank, NCF extend tree planting initiative to Abuja, Anambra

    Polaris Bank, in a robust display of its commitment to environmental sustainability, has expanded its nationwide tree-planting initiative in collaboration with the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF).

    The latest exercise took place at Government Secondary School, Gwagwalada, in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on October 14, 2024, following a similar event at Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University in Anambra State just days earlier and Professor K.K Nwozor commended the Bank for its conservation efforts.

    The initiative is part of a broader strategy by Polaris Bank to align its operations with the United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration (2021–2030), which stresses the urgent need for land restoration and resilience against desertification and drought. The theme resonates with the 2024 World Environment Day, underscoring the bank’s proactive stance in promoting sustainable practices aimed at restoring degraded lands and enhancing biodiversity across Nigeria.

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    Osazuwa Igbinoba, Directorate Head for Abuja, articulated the bank’s ethos, stating, “Sustainability is embedded in our business strategy and actions at Polaris Bank.” He noted that the tree-planting efforts not only aim to restore natural ecosystems but also focus on planting economic trees to ensure a sustainable environment for future generations.

    Chiwetalu Nwatu, Directorate Head for the South East, echoed this sentiment by emphasizing that sustainability is at the heart of the Bank’s operations, encompassing more than just financial services. He noted that Polaris Bank’s approach integrates responsible banking with societal empowerment and environmental responsibility, all grounded in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles.

    The significance of tree planting as a countermeasure against climate change cannot be overstated. Thus, the initiative addresses critical issues such as soil erosion, air quality improvement, and climate regulation through carbon dioxide absorption. The bank’s efforts are not isolated; they form part of a nationwide campaign that has seen similar initiatives executed at various educational institutions and community reserves across Nigeria.

    The Bank’s nationwide Tree planting exercises were held recently at Tai Solarin University, Ijebu Ode in Ogun State on July 1st; Ajingi Community Reserve, Kunkurawa in Kano State on August 30th; and University of Ibadan, Oyo State on October 3rd.These events illustrate Polaris Bank’s commitment to sustainable development and environmental restoration.

    This project not only enhances local ecosystems but also serves as a public call to action on the importance of environmental preservation. Through collaborative efforts like these, Polaris Bank seeks to inspire individuals, communities and organizations to engage in environmental restoration and contribute to a sustainable future for all.

    Polaris Bank, in collaboration with the NCF, remains steadfast in its commitment to environmental stewardship, community well-being and corporate responsibility, as demonstrated through these impactful tree-planting activities. Through this project, the Bank aims to inspire individuals, communities and organizations to foster a culture of sustainability throughout Nigeria.