Podcast: Nigerian farmers, scientists divided over GM maize

Season 4, Episode 46

The Nigerian government’s approval earlier this year of transgenic insect-resistant and drought-tolerant maize varieties, also known as TELA maize, has sparked intense debate among farmers, scientists, and the general public.

In this episode of Africa Science Focus, reporter Jayne Augoye hears out the diverse perspectives on the introduction of TELA maize, a genetically modified (GM) crop, which proponents say will contribute to food and nutrition security.

Samuel Agele, professor and researcher in plant ecophysiology at the Federal University of Technology, Akure, emphasised the need for public education and the regulation of genetically modified crops in Nigeria, amid concerns over possible health and environmental impacts.

Ijeoma Akaogu, a plant breeder and geneticist and programme officer at the African Agricultural Technology Foundation – implementing partner of the TELA maize project in Nigeria – says the engineered crops have increased resistance to pests and diseases.

However, farmers Anthony Musa and Olusola Sowemimo have differing views on the benefits of GM crops.

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Africa Science Focus is produced by SciDev.Net and distributed in association with your local radio station.

This piece was produced by SciDev.Net’s Sub-Saharan Africa English desk.