Abuja – April 29, 2025 – In a bold move to tackle Nigeria’s food and nutrition challenges, the Federal Government has announced the introduction of two zinc-rich rice varieties—Faro 71 and Faro 72—aimed at improving the health and livelihoods of millions of Nigerians.
The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, announced at a media briefing in Abuja, describing the development as a milestone in the nation’s fight against malnutrition and food insecurity.
“The introduction of these varieties is a proactive step towards addressing the nutritional challenges faced by our people,” Kyari said.
Why Zinc Rice?
The new rice strains are biofortified, meaning they are naturally enriched with zinc, a vital micronutrient that supports immune function, growth, and development, particularly in children and vulnerable populations. Despite being a rice-producing nation, Nigeria continues to grapple with malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies, especially in rural communities.
“Faro 71 and Faro 72 are not only rich in zinc, but also high-yielding and climate-resilient, adaptable to both Savanna and Rainforest ecologies,” Kyari noted.
This adaptability is expected to significantly boost productivity across diverse regions in Nigeria, offering smallholder farmers a chance to grow more nutritious crops and earn better incomes.
A Lifeline for Smallholder Farmers
Smallholder farmers, who form the backbone of Nigeria’s agricultural sector, stand to benefit the most from this breakthrough. The zinc rice varieties promise to:
- Improve yields
- Enhance nutritional value
- Resist climate pressures
- Open new market opportunities
“We are committed to ensuring that our people have access to nutritious food,” Kyari emphasised. “This initiative is a significant step in that direction.”
The zinc rice rollout is part of the government’s broader strategy to build a resilient, nutrition-sensitive food system capable of withstanding climate challenges and reducing reliance on imports.
As the nation faces ongoing threats to food production—from climate change to pest infestations—this initiative signals hope for a healthier, more food-secure Nigeria.