An agronomist, Prof. Salihu Abubakar, has called on relevant government agencies to intensify public awareness of Genetically Modified (GM) and hybrid crop technologies to address misconceptions among farmers.
Abubakar made the call in an interview with reporters in Maiduguri.
Hybrid crops are developed through traditional cross-pollination of related plant varieties, while GM crops are produced by modifying a plant’s DNA using modern biotechnology.
The technology has generated global debate over its potential health, environmental and regulatory implications, although approved GM crops undergo rigorous safety assessments before commercial release.
According to Abubakar, increased awareness will help dispel misinformation, encourage the adoption of appropriate innovations and ultimately enhance food security.
He said many farmers confuse GM crops with hybrid crops, even though they are developed using different technologies and possess distinct characteristics.
He said a better understanding of the differences would enable farmers to make informed decisions on seed selection and maximise the benefits of improved crop varieties.
Abubakar explained that SAMPEA 20-T, a genetically modified cowpea variety, was often mistaken for a hybrid crop.
“Many people confuse GM crops with hybrid crops, but they are not the same.
“SAMPEA 20-T is a GM cowpea, not a hybrid. Farmers can save its seeds and plant them again in subsequent seasons without losing its key characteristics,” he said.
He explained that hybrid maize varieties differ from GM maize because seeds harvested from hybrid crops generally do not retain the desirable traits responsible for high yields when replanted.
He advised farmers to purchase fresh hybrid maize seeds each planting season to ensure optimum productivity.
