Borno committee visits NCRI over new rice varieties
In a strategic move to enhance rice production and strengthen food security, a delegation from the Borno State Government’s Agricultural Transformation Committee (AgTC) visited the National Cereal Research Institute (NCRI) in Badeggi, Niger State. The visit, led by Alhaji Gana Bama and Mallam Isa Audu Teli, aimed at assessing newly developed rice seed varieties that could significantly boost farmers’ productivity in the state.
The NCRI, known for its leadership in cereal research and development, affirmed its commitment to supporting Borno’s agricultural transformation by providing improved rice varieties suited to the region’s ecological conditions. Dr. Mohammed Ndagi Ishaq, the executive director of NCRI, emphasized the importance of such partnerships in fostering innovation, improving yields, and enhancing economic development through agriculture.
With food security concerns growing in Nigeria, Borno’s effort to secure high-yielding, disease-resistant, and climate-resilient rice varieties aligns with the broader need for sustainable agricultural solutions. By integrating scientific advancements into local farming systems, the state aims to drive productivity and reduce dependency on external food sources.
Source- Daily Trust
Expert Review for Agri-Food Stakeholders
The visit to NCRI underscores a critical step in leveraging research-driven solutions to revamp rice production in Borno State. Several key takeaways for agri-food stakeholders include:
- Boosting Local Rice Production: Access to improved rice seeds tailored for Borno’s climate can enhance farmers’ yields, reducing the need for costly imported rice. This will contribute to food self-sufficiency and economic stability in the region.
- Climate Adaptation & Resilience: With climate change affecting rainfall patterns and soil conditions, climate-resilient rice varieties are crucial. The success of these improved seeds in Borno could serve as a model for similar ecologies across Nigeria.
- Strengthening Public-Private Collaboration: Stakeholders, including agribusiness investors, input suppliers, and financial institutions, should explore opportunities in seed multiplication, mechanization, and processing. Such partnerships could accelerate value chain development.
- Technology Transfer & Farmer Adoption: Beyond seed acquisition, ensuring proper extension services and farmer education is essential. Adoption of new rice varieties must be complemented with best agronomic practices, irrigation solutions, and post-harvest management strategies to maximize impact.
Way Forward for Agribusiness Players
- Investors and agripreneurs should monitor this partnership for potential collaboration in seed supply and value chain expansion.
- Policymakers must facilitate seamless access to research innovations, ensuring that improved rice varieties reach smallholder farmers efficiently.
- Financial institutions can design tailored credit schemes to support farmers adopting these high-yield rice varieties.
- Borno’s move aligns with Nigeria’s broader push for agricultural transformation, and if executed effectively, it could serve as a catalyst for improved food security and economic diversification.
