Biotech Updates

Biotechnology Can Boost Cotton Yield in Nigeria

April 4, 2012

"The use of Bt cotton seeds can give better yields than non-biotech hybrid varieties currently grown in Nigeria," said Prof. Bamidele Solomon, director general of Nigeria's National Biotechnology Development Agency (NABDA).

According to Solomon, Nigeria is now producing 120,000 tons of cotton per year, less than half of the 300,000 tons per year that was once produced in the country. There is also less number of textile manufacturing units in Nigeria at present, with only 25 units compared to 250 in the 70s and 80s.

Solomon suggested the use of biotechnology to increase cotton production and help the declining cotton industry in Nigeria. He said more growers and farmers would be interested in using Bt cotton seeds and this would increase the availability of raw materials to the country's textile industry.

More details are available at http://cottonmarketnews.com/2012/04/02/use-of-bt-cotton-can-boost-yield-in-nigeria-expert/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=use-of-bt-cotton-can-boost-yield-in-nigeria-expert.