Nigeria has announced the release of a newly developed chicken breed, named 'Moorbeta,' alongside 57 advanced crop varieties. This initiative aims to significantly increase meat availability, strengthen national food security, and improve the nutritional well-being of citizens.
The official introduction took place in Ibadan on Thursday during the 36th meeting of the National Committee on Naming, Registration and Release of Crop Varieties, Livestock Breeds/Fisheries. This meeting was organized by the National Centre for Genetic Resources and Biotechnology (NACGRAB) and chaired by the National Variety Release Committee (NVRC) Chairman, Soji Olufajo.
Mr. Olufajo stated that the approval of the new chicken breed and the 57 crop varieties, representing 14 different crops, followed recommendations from two technical sub-committees. He highlighted that these introductions are expected to have a substantial positive impact on the nation's food production.
He urged farmers to leverage these advancements by acquiring the improved seeds and adapted breeds. Furthermore, Olufajo called upon agricultural extension officers to ensure that farmers are well-informed about these new developments, emphasizing their role in driving greater agricultural output across the country.
Research institutions, breeders, geneticists, and other stakeholders were encouraged to continue their work towards advancing Nigeria's agricultural sector.
The newly released chicken breed, 'Moorbeta,' was developed by the Institute of Agricultural Research and Training (IAR&T;) in Ibadan. Its release and registration were based on key characteristics such as high body weight at 10 weeks, desirable carcass qualities, and a good tolerance to heat stress.
The 57 crop varieties include a range of important crops. For soyabean, one variety (YSJ001) was released for its high protein content, good pod clearance, and disease resistance.
Two new yam varieties, (UMUDr37) and (UMUDr38), developed in collaboration between the National Root Crops Research Institute (NRCRI) in Umudike and IITA in Ibadan, were also approved. These varieties are noted for their early maturity, excellent boiling quality, and good pounding characteristics.
A potato variety named 'Connect,' from NRCRI, was released for its large tubers, resistance to late blight, and suitability for consumption.
Six onion varieties from NIHORT – HORTIONI 1, 2, and 3 for dry seasons, and HORTIONI 4, 5, and 6 for wet seasons – were also registered. They were chosen for their high pungency, large bulb size, and disease resistance.
Additionally, five tomato varieties – HORTITOM 6 and 7, alongside SP TOM 1, 2, and 3 from NIHORT – were approved. These varieties are characterized by heat tolerance, early maturity, disease resistance, and adaptability to both dry and rainy conditions.
The approved rice varieties include FARO 73, SG rice 1 and 2, and MIP 5803 and 4802. Developed by the National Cereals Research Institute (NCRI), the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF), and international partners, they are recognized for their long, slender grains, good tillering, and drought tolerance.
The NVRC also approved one pepper variety, SP PEP 1, and three eggplant varieties: HORTICUM 1, 2, and 3, all from NIHORT. The pepper variety offers early maturity (55-65 days) and high vitamin C content, while the eggplant varieties are noted for early maturity.
Other crop varieties receiving approval include 15 maize varieties, four groundnut varieties, one sorghum variety, four cowpea varieties, and six cotton varieties.
The meeting, held at Lafia Hotel in Ibadan, convened agricultural researchers, geneticists, scientists, and breeders from various research institutes and universities across the country.
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