Today, 12th May 2025, the Institute for Agricultural Research (IAR), Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, had the distinct pleasure of welcoming Senator Usman Bayero Nafada from Gombe State. An experienced farmer himself, the distinguished senator made the trip to IAR to personally purchase seeds for his 2025 farming season, having recorded exceptional yields from the seeds he bought from the Institute last year, particularly the SAMMAZ 75T (TELA Maize).
The Senator’s visit is a powerful testament to the quality and reliability of IAR’s improved seed varieties. He expressed immense satisfaction with the high yield, drought tolerance, and pest resistance of TELA maize, which significantly boosted his farm productivity in the previous season. His confidence in IAR seeds is a compelling endorsement of the Institute’s tireless efforts to provide farmers with resilient and climate-smart crop varieties.
In a remarkable coincidence, a team from the Gates Foundation was also present at the Institute to document success stories about TELA maize. Senator Nafada graciously granted them an interview, sharing his personal experience and boldly debunking the negative myths and misconceptions surrounding genetically modified (GM) crops. He emphasized that the fears often propagated about TELA maize are unfounded, praising its performance and benefits to farmers.
The Executive Director, Prof. Ado Yusuf, also provided further scientific evidence and insights into the safety and benefits of TELA maize, reaffirming IAR’s commitment to rigorous research, quality assurance, and farmer-centered innovation.
Before departing, the Senator purchased a wide range of high-quality seeds, including Maize, Sorghum, Groundnut, Rice, and Sesame, from the IAR BETA Seed store. He left the Institute with a broad smile, deeply impressed by the progress of agricultural research at IAR and fully prepared for another successful planting season.
This inspiring visit underscores the vital role of quality seeds and innovative agricultural technologies in transforming farming practices, enhancing food security, and boosting rural livelihoods. It also highlights the growing trust and confidence that farmers and policymakers alike place in IAR’s pioneering work.
Share This News