Maize farmers across parts of Northern Kaduna State say they are expecting bumper harvests this farming season, following the introduction and cultivation of TELA maize.
TELA maize is a new variety of seed noted for its high yield and resistance to insects.
Some farmers in Makarfi, Sabon Gari, and Soba local government areas confirmed that the maize seed outperformed other local varieties in growth, pest resistance, and overall productivity.
Tajudeen Gambo, a farmer in Marke village in Makarfi LGA, said he planted the TELA variety on a 0.3-hectare plot and had observed a remarkable yield compared to the maize seeds he had been planting in the last 15 years.
He said, “I anticipate about a 50 to 75 per cent increase in yield compared to previous seasons.
“The crop resisted insects and performed excellently well. With this result, I will abandon other varieties and expand my farm with TELA maize next season.”
He appealed to government at all levels to make the new seed more accessible to farmers at subsidised rates to enhance production, reduce poverty, and strengthen food security.
In Sabon Gari LGA, Shu’aibu Mustapha of the Maraban Gwanda community said he cultivated the TELA maize on a quarter-hectare plot, following agronomic guidelines and extension agents’ advice.
“The variety grew faster, and it was not attacked by insects and was not too tall to be affected by wind.
“Because of this, many neighbouring farmers have shown interest in planting it next season,” he said.
In Soba LGA, however, Adamu Haruna of the Bagaldi community at Gimba ward said he faced early challenges due to a 21-day dry spell after planting, which affected germination on part of his half-hectare farm.
“Despite the drought, the TELA seed still germinated better than other varieties would have.
“Farms nearby that had other seeds planted were attacked by ‘Fall Armyworm’, but my TELA maize field was not affected,” he said.
Mr Haruna added that the new maize variety produced larger cobs than usual and attracted interest from other farmers in his area.
“In previous years, I harvested about 10 bags from this same field, but this season I expect 15 to 17 bags,” he said.
The farmers collectively urged the government and agricultural agencies to expand the distribution of TELA maize seeds, noting its potential to boost national food security and rural income.
(NAN)