In a bid to enhance food quality and boost agricultural productivity, Nigerian researchers and policymakers are working to standardize nutrient-rich crop varieties.
The initiative aims to expand beyond maize, introducing fortified rice and tubers like Orange-Fleshed Sweet Potato (OFSP) to improve the nation's nutritional profile.
At a recent validation workshop, experts stressed the need to set clear micronutrient benchmarks for newly developed crops. Prof. Olusoji Olufajo, Chairman of the Variety Release Committee, emphasized that validating these standards ensures that high-yielding crop varieties are also nutritionally beneficial.
He pointed out that Provitamin A Maize, a biofortified variety, must contain sufficient beta-carotene levels to effectively combat vitamin A deficiency in Nigeria.
"When we release a new variety, we must know the exact amount of Provitamin A it contains. Without defined standards, measuring the nutritional impact of these crops becomes difficult," Olufajo explained.
He added that continuous research and validation are necessary to align with evolving scientific advancements.
Prof. Shehu Ado, a research professor at Ahmadu Bello University and Chairman of the Technical Subcommittee on Crop Variety Registration and Release, provided insights on how consumers can identify Provitamin A Maize in the market.
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"This variety, also called Orange Maize, has a deep orange color similar to carrots due to its beta-carotene content," he explained. He further stressed the importance of proper grading and labeling to help consumers recognize nutrient-rich options.
Addressing concerns about biofortification and genetically modified organisms (GMOs), Prof. Ado clarified that biofortified crops are not genetically modified. "Biofortification is achieved through conventional breeding, which naturally enhances the nutrient content of crops.
This is different from genetic modification, which involves introducing foreign genes using biotechnology," he stated.
He noted that only three GMO crops have been approved in Nigeria—Bt Cotton, Bt Cowpea (Beans), and Tela Maize, a drought-resistant and pest-tolerant maize variety.
The primary goal of biofortification, he added, is to improve crops using natural breeding methods to ensure better nutrition without altering the plant's genetic makeup unnaturally.
The validation workshop brought together researchers, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to finalize micronutrient standards for Provitamin A and Non-Provitamin A maize varieties.
Participants were encouraged to contribute their technical expertise and feedback to help shape Nigeria's nutrition strategy, ensuring that farmers and consumers benefit from high-quality, nutrient-dense crops.
