IAR Showcases TELA Maize to Farmers in Karaye, Kano State

IAR Showcases TELA Maize to Farmers in Karaye, Kano State

Maize
September 25, 2026

The Institute for Agricultural Research (IAR), Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, in partnership with the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF), today, 24 September 2026, organised a Farmers’ Field Day in Karaye, Kano State, to sensitise farmers on the benefits and performance of improved TELA maize varieties.

Speaking to farmers at the Field Day, the Executive Director of IAR, Prof. Ado A. Yusuf, encouraged farmers to embrace proven agricultural technologies developed and tested by research institutions for improved productivity and livelihoods.

Prof. Ado noted that, with over a century of agricultural research experience, IAR has developed and released several improved crop varieties, including TELA maize, to address major challenges confronting farmers. He explained that the new maize varieties were developed to improve productivity while providing protection against major insect pests such as fall armyworm and stem borers, as well as addressing production challenges associated with drought.

The Executive Director explained that the Field Day was organised to expose farmers to the technology and enable them to make informed choices of maize varieties for the coming cropping season. He reaffirmed IAR’s commitment to working with farmers and partners to contribute to improved food production and food security in Nigeria and the sub-region.

Prof. Ado also highlighted the importance of using quality seeds and appropriate fertiliser practices, noting that poor-quality seed and inappropriate fertiliser application can contribute to low productivity and poor returns. He therefore advised farmers to purchase improved seeds from reputable seed companies and certified agro-dealers.

Speaking on the potential of TELA maize, the Lead Scientist of the TELA Maize Project, Prof. Rabiu Adamu, said the project seeks to contribute to increasing Nigeria’s maize production capacity. He noted the gap between national maize requirements and current production and highlighted the importance of improved varieties in meeting the growing demand for maize.

According to Prof. Rabiu, TELA maize offers farmers high yield potential, protection against major insect pests and tolerance to drought, providing an opportunity to improve productivity under challenging production conditions.

In his goodwill message, the TELA Maize Country Coordinator, AATF Nigeria, Dr. Yarama Ndirpaya, encouraged farmers to consider TELA maize for improved food and economic security. He also called for stronger government support for agriculture and agricultural research to improve farmers’ livelihoods and strengthen food security.

The Chairman, Maize Farmers Association of Nigeria, Kano State, Alhaji Munkaila Garba, and the representative of the District Head of Karaye, Alhaji Bello Ahmed (Dakacin Karaye), expressed their support for the adoption of improved maize varieties and encouraged farmers to embrace technologies that can enhance productivity. They also called for increased support for farmers through improved access to agricultural inputs.

A major highlight of the Field Day was the farmers’ field inspection, where participants visited the demonstration field and had the opportunity to observe and assess the different maize varieties under actual field conditions. Farmers participated in identifying varieties with characteristics suitable for their local production needs.

The Field Day provided an important platform for farmer education, technology demonstration and direct interaction between researchers, farmers and agricultural stakeholders, further strengthening the link between agricultural research and the farming community.

Better Seeds. Better Choices. Better Harvests.

Institute for Agricultural Research (IAR), ABU Zaria

Driving Agricultural Research, Innovation and Transformation.