March 27, (THEWILL) — Nigeria has introduced a new locally developed chicken breed alongside 57 improved crop varieties in a move to boost food production and strengthen agricultural resilience.
The announcement was made in Ibadan during the 36th meeting of the National Committee on Naming, Registration and Release of Crop Varieties, Livestock Breeds and Fisheries, organised by the National Centre for Genetic Resources and Biotechnology (NACGRAB).
Speaking at the event, the chairman of the National Variety Release Committee (NVRC), Soji Olufajo, said the newly approved varieties are expected to significantly enhance food production and encourage farmers to adopt improved seeds and breeding materials.
A key highlight of the meeting was the approval of a new chicken breed named “Moorbeta.” According to the sub-committee chaired by Waheed Akin-Hassan, the breed is a locally developed meat-type bird with strong growth potential and adaptability, making it suitable for large-scale production and improved poultry yields.
The committee also approved the release of 57 improved crop varieties covering major agricultural staples, including soybean, yam, potato, onion, tomato, rice, pepper, eggplant, Musa species, cotton, maize, groundnut, sorghum, and cowpea.
These improved varieties are expected to deliver higher yields, better climate resilience, and stronger adaptation to local farming conditions, supporting Nigeria’s efforts to strengthen food security and improve agricultural productivity.
Ogochukwu Onwaeze is a writer specializing in business and economic journalism. At THEWILL News Media, she translates market trends, financial developments, and policy shifts into clear and engaging stories.
