The Borno State Government’s Agricultural Transformation Committee (AgTC) delegation, led by Alhaji Gana Bama and Mallam Isa Audu Teli, visited the National Cereal Research Institute (NCRI) Badeggi, Niger State on Tuesday, 11th February 2025, to explore and assess improved rice varieties that will help boost agricultural production in the state.
The primary goal of the visit was to examine new varieties of rice seeds that could significantly enhance the productivity of farmers in Borno State. The team is particularly interested in obtaining rice varieties that are well-suited to the state’s unique ecological conditions, with a focus on FARO 68, FARO 69, FARO 70 and Gawal rice varieties, whether foundation or certified seed.
The delegation was warmly received by the Executive Director of NCRI, Dr. M. N. Ishaq, alongside Dr. Danbaba Nahemiah, Assistant Director (Research) and Dr. Muhammad Liman Muhammad, Rice Breeder.
According to a press statement issued through the Institute Public Relations Officer, Mohammed Tukur Mohammed, the visit allowed for fruitful discussions on the potential for collaboration between NCRI and the Borno State Government in improving agricultural practices, especially in rice production, to support the state’s food security and economic development.
“We are delighted to host the Borno State Agricultural Transformation Team and discuss ways to support the state’s ambitious agricultural goals,” said Dr. Ishaq. “By providing access to our improved rice varieties, we are confident that Borno’s farmers will be able to increase their yields and contribute to the overall growth of the state’s agricultural sector.”
As part of its ongoing commitment to fostering innovation in agriculture, NCRI is dedicated to developing and promoting high-yielding, disease-resistant and climate-resilient crop varieties. Through partnerships like this, NCRI continues to play a pivotal role in driving agricultural transformation across the nation.
The Borno State Government’s AgTC will continue to work with research institutes such as NCRI to implement strategies that will not only improve rice production but also positively impact the cultivation of other vital crops like wheat, maize, cowpea, cassava, groundnut and vegetables.
The National Cereal Research Institute (NCRI) is a leading agricultural research institute dedicated to enhancing the production of cereals, including rice, soybean, beniseed, acha, sugarcane, castor and stevia through innovative research and development. NCRI’s work is vital to improving food security, increasing yields and supporting sustainable agricultural practices in Nigeria.
