The Institute for Agricultural Research (IAR), Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, has unveiled a new pest-resistant and drought-tolerant maize variety to strengthen food security and cut production costs for farmers.
Speaking at a Farmers' Green Field Day in Bichi, Kano State, Professor Ado Yusuf explained that the demonstration was designed to show farmers the real benefits of the technology.
He noted that IAR develops breeder and foundation seeds for over 200 private seed companies to multiply and distribute nationwide.
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Principal investigator Professor Rabiu Adamu said the hybrid yields up to 8 tons per hectare, matures within 95 days, and can save farmers about ₦70,000 per hectare on insecticides.
Bichi farmer, Sunusi Dankawu, praised the new variety for its resilience and higher output compared to local maize.
The IAR technology is expected to give smallholders across Nigeria better access to improved seeds, reduce farm risks, and boost profitability.
