TELA maize is a new variety of seed noted for its high yield and resistance to insects.
The AATF project manager said increased anti-GMO technology activism, with court cases, is another challenge to stop African farmers from growing genetically engineered crops.
The DG said biotechnology including genetic engineering provided powerful tools for the sustainable development of agriculture, fishery and forestry.
“I use this opportunity to call on Nigerians to come to the expo ground and witness for themselves our research which is of international standard,” NADBA boss.
Experts said the cultivation of the transgenic maize seed would yield up to 10 tonnes per hectare, against the six tonnes by ordinary hybrid.
The federal government has approved the commercial release and open cultivation of a new maize variety, TELA maize.
“This permit authorises the permit holder and persons covered by the permit to commercialise the TELA maize genetically modified for drought tolerance and insect resistance.”
