Nigeria Introduces ‘Moorbeta’ Chicken, 57 Improved Crops For Higher Yields

Major Push to Strengthen Food Production

NIGERIA has taken a significant step toward enhancing food security with the release of a new chicken breed and 57 improved crop varieties aimed at boosting agricultural productivity and nutrition.

The announcement was made during the 36th meeting of the National Committee on Naming, Registration and Release of Crop Varieties and Livestock Breeds, organised by the National Centre for Genetic Resources and Biotechnology in Ibadan.

Introduction of ‘Moorbeta’ Chicken

A key highlight of the meeting was the unveiling of a new locally developed chicken breed named Moorbeta, bred by the Institute of Agricultural Research and Training.

According to experts, the breed is designed for meat production and is characterised by rapid growth, high body weight within 10 weeks, strong carcass quality, and tolerance to heat stress—making it suitable for Nigeria’s climate.

Chairman of the National Variety Release Committee, Soji Olufajo, said the breed would be mass-produced due to its strong commercial potential.

57 High-Yield Crop Varieties Approved

In addition to the livestock innovation, the committee approved 57 improved crop varieties across 14 different crops, including rice, maize, yam, tomato, pepper, onion, soybean, cowpea, and cotton.

Many of the varieties were developed through collaborations between national research institutes such as the National Horticultural Research Institute, International Institute of Tropical Agriculture, and National Root Crops Research Institute.

These varieties were selected for their high yield, disease resistance, climate adaptability, and improved nutritional value.

Focus on Nutrition and Climate Resilience

Among the notable releases were improved plantain and banana varieties with high carotenoid content, disease-resistant soybeans with high protein levels, and early-maturing yam species suitable for diverse soil conditions.

Rice varieties with drought tolerance and better grain quality were also approved, reflecting efforts to address climate-related challenges in food production.

Call for Adoption and Awareness

Olufajo urged farmers to take advantage of the new varieties, while calling on extension officers to ensure widespread awareness and adoption.

He also encouraged continued collaboration among researchers, breeders, and agricultural stakeholders to sustain innovation in the sector.

Towards Sustainable Food Security

The initiative is expected to support Nigeria’s efforts to improve food availability, reduce import dependence, and strengthen resilience in the agricultural sector.

Experts say the success of the programme will depend largely on effective dissemination and adoption at the grassroots level.