Lagos State AFAN Chairman, Sakin Agbayewa, has expressed optimism over the Federal Government’s recent approval of 57 improved crop varieties, describing the move as a timely boost for farmers and national food production.
Speaking in Lagos, the chairman of All Farmers Association of Nigeria said the development signals progress in the country’s agricultural research efforts and could play a key role in tackling food shortages.
According to him, the newly approved crops, which cut across major staples such as rice, maize, yam, soybean, and plantain, are designed to mature faster, produce higher yields, and withstand pests and diseases. He noted that these qualities are critical at a time when farmers are grappling with changing weather conditions and irregular rainfall.
Agbayewa stressed that productivity in farming is no longer determined by land size alone, but by the quality of seeds and seedlings used. He explained that farmers cultivating smaller plots with improved varieties could achieve better results than those working on larger land areas with less efficient seeds.
He added that the introduction of the varieties presents an opportunity to strengthen food security and improve farmers’ incomes if properly adopted. However, he warned that many farmers remain unaware of the innovation and called for wider sensitization.
The AFAN leader urged authorities and relevant stakeholders to intensify awareness campaigns so that farmers across the country can access and utilize the new varieties. He maintained that increased adoption would not only enhance yields but also help farmers sustain their livelihoods.
Agbayewa also linked the development to growing local capacity in agricultural research, noting that the varieties were produced within the country. He described this as a positive step toward self-reliance in food production and encouraged continued investment in research to address emerging challenges in the sector.
He further pointed out that issues such as climate change and unpredictable weather patterns continue to affect farming activities, making improved crop varieties essential for stable production. He called for sustained support to ensure that such innovations reach grassroots farmers and deliver the intended impact.
