By Aminu Garko
The Centre for Dryland Agriculture (CDA) at Bayero University Kano in collaboration with the National Cereals Research Institute (NCRI) and HarvestPlus Nigeria have Developed a High Zinc Rice Varieties to Combat Hidden Hunger in Nigeria.
Dr. Abdulwahab Shaibu of the institution in a statement said, the new rice varieties have the potential to significantly improve the nutritional status of Nigerians, particularly in the dryland regions “where we focus our research.”
He noted that, Micronutrient deficiency, or “hidden hunger,” is a significant public health issue in developing countries, including Nigeria, where zinc deficiency affects millions, particularly women and children.
Recognizing the potential of biofortification to address this challenge, Dr. Shuaibu explained that, the CDA, NCRI, and HarvestPlus Nigeria joined forces to evaluate and select superior high zinc rice genotypes.
He said, the collaborative research, which included on-station, multi-location, and on-farm trials across Nigeria, identified BRRI DHAN 74 and BRRI DHAN 100 as promising genotypes.
“These varieties demonstrated high yield potential, desirable agronomic traits, high zinc content, and adaptability to Nigerian conditions.”
Farmers also expressed a strong preference for these varieties during participatory varietal selection.
“The Centre for Dryland Agriculture is proud to have contributed its expertise to this vital project,” stated Dr. Abdulwahab S. Shaibu, a plant breeder from CDA. “These new rice varieties have the potential to significantly improve the nutritional status of Nigerians, particularly in the dryland regions where we focus our research.”
The successful collaboration between the Centre for Dryland Agriculture, the National Cereals Research Institute, and HarvestPlus Nigeria has led to the release of FARO 71 and FARO 72 in Nigeria.”
“This marks a significant step forward in addressing micronutrient deficiency and improving food security in the nation.”
played a crucial role in this collaborative project, partnering with the National Cereals Research Institute (NCRI), Badeggi, and HarvestPlus Nigeria.
The Centre for Dryland Agriculture Plays Key Role in Development of High Zinc Rice Varieties to Combat Hidden Hunger in NigeriaA groundbreaking effort to combat micronutrient deficiency in Nigeria has culminated in the nomination of two high-yielding, zinc-biofortified lowland rice varieties for registration and release.
The Centre for Dryland Agriculture (CDA) at Bayero University Kano played a crucial role in this collaborative project, partnering with the National Cereals Research Institute (NCRI), Badeggi, and HarvestPlus Nigeria.
Micronutrient deficiency, or “hidden hunger,” is a significant public health issue in developing countries, including Nigeria, where zinc deficiency affects millions, particularly women and children.
