Biofortification can address malnutrition increase farmers’ income —NABDA

The Director-General of National Biotechnology Development Agency (NABDA), Professor Abdullahi Mustapha, has said biofortification in plant breeding can fight the scourge of malnutrition and also increase incomes of smallholder farmers.

Professor Mustapha who stated this at the ground breaking hybrid conference, held at JS Tarka University, Markudi, noted that using biofortification varieties alternately in existing intercropping system with maize, yams and legumes can boost dietary.

Represented by the Director of Agricultural Biotechnology in NABDA, Dr Rose Gidado, the DG further stated that micronutrient deficiencies mainly due to lack of vitamin A, zinc and iron underlie much of this malnutrition epidemic as staple crop dependence provides insufficient essential nutrients.

“Using biofortified varieties alternately in existing intercropping system with maize, yams and legumes can boost dietary. Maize also offers appropriate entry point being a traditional staple crop and vital food security pillar for Nigerian smallholder farmers” Professor Mustapha said.

Micronutrient-dense maize integrated into regular diets will help counter recurring Vitamin A deficiencies and protein deficiencies affecting children and mothers while raising farmers’ income.

“These resilient, climate smart cereals already provide major calorie sources in many parts of the country. Biofortifying them can thus sustainably alleviate malnutrition.

“Popularising iron-rich cowpea and soybean will benefit women’s health and productivity given their high nutritional needs.

“Overall, mainstreaming such improved varieties across Nigeria’s diverse agro-ecologies can profoundly impact malnutrition if policies also enable farmers’ adoption and consumption”, he said.

The NABDA boss however said the generation of micronutrient-dense crops through the use of biotechnology is more cost effective, sustainable and realistic.

President Plant Breeders Association of Nigeria (PBAN), Professor Terkimbi Vange said the conference aims to provide a platform for researchers, scientists, educators, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to share knowledge and breakthroughs in plant breeding, fostering discussions, and contributing to sector advancement.

He said the conference will facilitate connections and collaborations among attendees for research projects, resource sharing, and addressing industry challenges.

Professor Vange further stated that through the conference, there will be an engagement with policymakers, government bodies, and industry stakeholders to address crucial issues, advocate for favorable policies, and shape the future of plant breeding practices in Nigeria.

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