Deputy speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has called for more investments in the seed industry to ensure food security in the country.

Mr Kalu said this on Tuesday when he declared the sixth Seed Connect Africa Conference & Exhibition 2023 open in Abuja.

He said investment in research and innovation would empower farmers to produce more and contribute to a more food-secure and prosperous Nigeria.

“As we confront the global food emergency, the seed industry holds the key to unlocking sustainable solutions and ensuring food security for all. By investing in research, innovation, and capacity building, we can empower our farmers to produce more sustainably and contribute to a more food-secure and prosperous Nigeria,” he said.

Mr Kalu said there was a need to amplify the critical role of the seed industry in addressing the pressing issue of food security in Africa.

“Nigeria is a nation blessed with abundant agricultural potential with significant strides in developing its seed industry,” he said.

Mr Kalu said the public sector accounted for 87 per cent of variety releases in the seed market as the primary driver of variety development.

Mr Kalu said that the private sector’s growing presence accounted for 13 per cent of variety releases in the country. He said with over 157 registered seed companies, Nigeria had emerged as a regional leader in seed production and export.

“In 2019 alone, the country accounted for a staggering 60 per cent of the total seeds marketed in West Africa. This impressive export volume highlights Nigeria’s capacity to contribute to regional food security efforts,” added the deputy speaker.

According to him, the recent Plant Variety Protection ACT 2021 enactment is a landmark achievement in strengthening Nigeria’s seed industry.

“This groundbreaking legislation provides legal protection for plant breeders, fostering innovation and investment in seed development,” noted Mr Kalu. “The PVP Act is poised to revolutionise the seed sector, leading to increased productivity, improved seed quality, and enhanced access for farmers.”

The deputy speaker commended the National Agricultural Seed Council for its unwavering dedication to the growth and development of Nigeria’s seed industry.

Mr Kalu urged the participants to explore innovative solutions to address the challenges and opportunities in the seed industry.

(NAN)