The Deputy Chancellor of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Prof. Adamu Ahmad, has cautioned that the significant increase in agricultural inpu...
The Deputy Chancellor of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Prof. Adamu Ahmad, has cautioned that the significant increase in agricultural input costs presents a serious risk to Nigeria's food security, calling on the Federal Government to take action before more farmers stop producing.
Ahmad, who expressed concern over the rising costs of fertilizers, tractors, hybrid seeds, farmland, and other crucial resources, mentioned that numerous small-scale farmers were already having difficulty staying in operation. He cautioned that without specific assistance, the nation faces a more severe food emergency.
The expense of agricultural supplies is growing too heavy for regular farmers. A lot of them can't even cover their costs anymore," Ahmad stated. "If the government doesn't take immediate action, our farmers might not be able to endure the present financial challenges.
Prof. Rabiu Adamu, acting on behalf of the VC, addressed an audience on Saturday during a field demonstration of a genetically modified hybrid maize variety called TELA maize at the Samaru College of Agriculture in Zaria.
The gathering, hosted by ECOBasic Seed, a seed company based in Kaduna, highlighted the drought resistance, pest resilience, and increased productivity of TELA maize in comparison to the widely used Open Pollinated Variety.
Speaking to over 100 attendees from the university's agricultural community, Ahmad highlighted the importance of farmers embracing contemporary farming methods, such as hybrid seeds, machinery, and innovative technologies that can increase production and earnings.
"It is impossible to keep farming in the same manner and anticipate different outcomes. Hybrid seeds and machinery are no longer choices; they are necessary for Nigeria to achieve food self-sufficiency," he stated.
Ahmad pointed out that farming continues to be the foundation of Nigeria's economy, emphasizing that it needs consistent research investment, financial support, agricultural education, and targeted measures to maintain the industry and ensure the country's food safety.
He stated that Nigeria's pursuit of food self-sufficiency depends on the broad use of high-yield seed types that can produce significant harvests even under climate challenges.
From his side, the Managing Director of ECOBasic Seed, Mr. Brighton Karume, stated that the TELA maize trials showed the crop's ability to grow in difficult conditions while surpassing conventional varieties in yield and resilience.
"The demonstration of TELA maize's performance clearly highlights its advantages. It is resistant to drought, pests, and provides higher yields for farmers," Karume stated.
The Managing Director mentioned that ECOBasic Seed is collaborating with research institutions, as represented by the firm's Commercial Manager, Mr. Moses Atewogboye, to promote economically viable, technology-based farming throughout the nation.
He mentioned that the farming industry could only attain sustained development by means of innovations supported by reliable scientific studies and ongoing involvement from all relevant parties.
Karume mentioned that ECOBasic Seed's dedication to boosting Nigeria's agriculture extends past the production of foundation seeds. He highlighted that the company keeps investing in farmer training, field testing, and community initiatives designed to increase understanding of better seed varieties.
"Numerous farmers in Nigeria continue to use old, low-productivity crop types. This needs to change if we want to match the top agricultural nations," he stated.
Karume stated that the implementation of TELA maize is a component of a larger plan to provide farmers with durable, climate-conscious choices amid growing weather uncertainties.
He pointed out that using these enhanced varieties could greatly assist farmers in minimizing losses caused by drought, insects, and illnesses, thereby boosting profits and reinforcing the country's agricultural production systems.
"Using enhanced, hardy seeds, farmers can increase production and aid Nigeria's food security goals. The technology exists; what is needed now is broader implementation," he added.
PUNCH Online states that Nigeria depends greatly on agriculture as a major contributor to its economy and a means of providing jobs for millions. Small-scale farmers make up a large part of the agricultural workforce, cultivating essential crops like maize, rice, and cassava.
Nevertheless, the industry has continuously encountered difficulties, such as unpredictable weather conditions, inadequate infrastructure, and restricted availability of advanced technology.
In recent years, the significant increase in the price of agricultural inputs—like fertilizers, seeds, tractors, and other machinery—has created substantial challenges for farmers, especially small-scale ones. This rise endangers both farming output and the country's food security, as numerous farmers find it difficult to stay profitable or are compelled to cut down on the land they cultivate.
To tackle these issues, advancements such as hybrid and drought-resistant seeds, machinery, and contemporary agricultural technology have been supported by research organizations and private seed enterprises.
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).
