In a bid to enhance food security, the Seed Entrepreneurs Association of Nigeria (SEEDAN) has stressed the need to maintain high-quality seeds, noting that they are living entities requiring special care throughout the production and supply chain.
The Acting Executive Secretary of SEEDAN, Mr. Stephen Adigun revealed this in a press release made available to AgroNigeria, after a meeting with the National Agricultural Seed Council (NASC) to address concerns and finalise preparations for the National Agricultural Growth Scheme – Agro-Pocket (NAGS-AP) seed supply.
The statement read in part, “For the records, it is essential for seed companies to understand that seed cannot and will not be treated like other agro-inputs. Seed is a living entity that requires proper handling to ensure its quality is preserved throughout the seed production, processing, packaging, delivery, and utilization cycle.
“To this effect, NASC has already conducted due diligence in confirming the available seed based on seed certification and quality assurance standards. Information on the available seed stock by seed companies that met the minimum seed certification standards has already been forwarded to the HMA for further processing and approvals.
“The NAGS-AP seed supply is expected to commence soonest. Seed companies that have met the requirements should expect further information and directives on the mapping to redemption centers accordingly.”
