The Institute for Agricultural Research (IAR), Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, has urged stakeholders to make TELA maise seeds more affordable and readily available to farmers.
Executive Director of IAR, Prof Ado Yusuf, appealed during a field visit to Zaria and Giwa, while receiving a delegation from the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF) and TELA Nigeria.
Yusuf, represented by Prof Nafi’u Abdu, said many farmers were unable to access TELA maise seeds during the 2025 wet season due to high prices, ranging from ₦5,000 to ₦8,500 per kilogram, and delayed supply.
He noted that the transgenic maise variety had proven effective in controlling Fall Armyworm infestations and improving yields, but warned that delays and cost barriers could undermine adoption. Yusuf also called for stronger public sensitisation to counter misinformation about genetically modified crops.
Meanwhile, TELA Nigeria National Coordinator, Mr Yarama Ndirpaya, admitted that high costs led to the circulation of fake seeds in Kano, adding that culprits had been reported. He said efforts were ongoing to partner with local producers and lower prices ahead of the next planting season.
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