The development followed several mixed reactions following the recent launch of TELA Maize, a genetically modified variety, developed by researchers at the Institute of Agricultural Research (IAR), Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.
Reacting to the opposition against genetically modified (GM) crops, a coalition of Nigeria’s agricultural research bodies led by the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria (ARCN) stated that there is no cause for alarm over the crops.
Addressing the press in Abuja, ARCN executive-secretary Prof Garuba Sharubutu countered a media campaign against GM technology in Nigeria while he insisted that the technology was developed to improve crops productivity, including being resilient to climate change and farming challenges.
Contrary to the opposing notions, Sharubutu maintained that biotechnology has been used successfully to increase crops productivity by combating insect pests and drought in other parts of the world, including USA, Europe, Brazil, Argentina and South Africa.
