Lagos, Nigeria— A recent on-farm study by the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF) has demonstrated that TELA maize hybrids significantly outperform traditional varieties in yield, profitability, and pest resistance, offering fresh optimism for Nigerian farmers grappling with climate and pest pressures.
The report highlighted that one TELA hybrid, SAMMAZ 75T, averaged 5.09 tons per hectare—substantially surpassing the 3.3 tons from conventional maize.
This increased yield translated into earnings of ₦3.16 million per hectare, compared to ₦2.05 million from standard maize cultivation.
Trials were conducted across multiple locations, involving 120 farmers who planted both TELA and non-TELA maize on half-hectare plots, ahead of the planned commercialization of four TELA hybrids (SAMMAZ 72T, 73T, 74T, and 75T) in January 2024.
The study found pest damage affected only 22% of TELA maize farmers, while 86% of non-TELA farmers suffered losses—some reaching up to 66%.
Furthermore, TELA maize fields required fewer pesticide sprays, averaging 1.3 applications per season versus 2.1 for conventional crops.
Professor Rabiu Adamu, Principal Investigator of the TELA Maize Project, stressed the hybrids’ role in strengthening smallholder resilience.
“No TELA maize plots experienced damage exceeding one-third of the crop, in contrast to some conventional farms losing up to two-thirds,” he noted.
Dr. Sylvester Oikeh, AATF’s Project Manager, described the findings as a landmark for Nigerian agriculture.
“TELA maize marks significant progress toward climate-resilient and profitable farming by boosting yields, cutting input costs, and improving environmental sustainability.”
Participating farmers reported an average income increase of over ₦1.1 million per hectare compared to traditional maize. More than 90% expressed satisfaction, praising better germination, quicker growth, and reduced pesticide needs.
A farmer shared his experience: “With TELA maize, I sprayed less but harvested more, saving both time and money.”
The study positions TELA maize as a critical resource in Nigeria’s pursuit of sustainable agriculture and enhanced food security.
By Enoch Odesola | July 21, 2025
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