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Nigeria gov’t approves new Chicken variety ‘MoorBeta’

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The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development has announced the approval of a new indigenous meat-type chicken, MoorBeta, for commercialisation in Nigeria, as part of a broader strategy to strengthen poultry production and enhance food security across the country.

In a statement issued Tuesday, the ministry described the new breed as a significant milestone in efforts to improve local livestock genetics and support farmers.

“The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development has welcomed the approval and release of MoorBeta, an improved indigenous meat-type chicken developed to support poultry production and food security in Nigeria,” the statement said.

It noted that MoorBeta was formally approved for release and registration on 26 March by the National Crop Varieties and Livestock Breeds Registration and Release Committee during a meeting held at the National Centre for Genetic Resources and Biotechnology in Ibadan, Oyo State.

The ministry explained that the chicken variety was developed by the Poultry Research Team at the Institute of Agricultural Research and Training, noting that MoorBeta is the product of over a decade of breeding work involving a mix of indigenous and exotic meat-type chickens.

“The breed is suited for smallholder farmers, with the ability to perform well under different environmental conditions across the country. At 10 weeks, MoorBeta reaches an average live weight of about 2.8kg, with improved feed efficiency and survival rates above 95 percent,” the statement said.

The ministry added that it collaborated closely with the institute and was represented on the approving committee.

Beyond productivity, the ministry said the breed offers qualities attractive to consumers, describing the meat as tender and juicy, with minimal loss during cooking.

According to the statement, the bird is predominantly white, with speckles of brown, black or red, and features a large single comb and a well-developed body that supports higher meat yield. It also shows tolerance to heat stress, a critical advantage for poultry farming in tropical climates.

Economic projections further highlight its potential impact. A 2025 cost analysis shows that raising 100 birds could yield a net profit of over N278,000 within a 10-week production cycle, underscoring its viability for both smallholder and commercial poultry operators.

The introduction of MoorBeta is expected to improve local livestock breeds, increase productivity, boost incomes, and reinforce national efforts to achieve food and nutrition security.

The ministry said it would continue to partner with research institutions and stakeholders to scale innovations that enhance agricultural performance nationwide.

However, the approval comes amid broader criticism surrounding the adoption of transgenic products in recent years, with some critics linking such innovations to health concerns including cancer, heart, and kidney-related diseases, and describing them as “chemical foods.”

In the past decade, the government has approved several genetically modified seeds, sparking debates over safety, environmental impact, and socio-economic implications.

Earlier, PREMIUM TIMES reported that the National Biosafety Management Agency ordered the suspension of four new transgenic cotton hybrid varieties in Nigeria.

The varieties were said to have been registered by the National Committee on Naming, Registration and Release of Crop Varieties, Livestock Breeds and Fisheries on 26 March 2026 without the requisite approval of the biosafety agency.

According to the agency, its findings confirmed that confined field trials and related activities involving the varieties were conducted without prior authorisation, inspection, or regulatory oversight.

The suspension underscores ongoing challenges around biosafety compliance and regulatory oversight in Nigeria’s biotechnology sector.

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NCC Honours Top Staff Driving Nigeria’s Digital Transformation

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BY NKECHI NAECHE-ESEZOBOR—The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has recognised and rewarded its top-performing staff in a move that underscores its commitment to excellence and innovation, spotlighting employees whose contributions are helping to accelerate Nigeria’s digital transformation and strengthen the country’s telecommunications landscape.

The event, which took place in Abuja, brought together major stakeholders from across the telecommunications sector and reiterated the Commission’s goal of building “a more connected and prosperous Nigeria” for digital users across the country.

Speaking at the ceremony, Chairman of the NCC Governing Board, Idris Olorunnimbe, described the occasion as a milestone for the organisation, emphasising the critical role of its workforce in achieving its strategic goals.

“This is a moment of pride as we celebrate the very core of our organisation—our outstanding staff.”

Olorunnimbe stressed that the Commission’s successes are anchored in the commitment of its personnel, whose creativity, resilience, and consistent dedication continue to propel its progress.
He further noted that institutions thrive when they invest in developing their people, adding that NCC employees reflect the highest levels of professionalism and service excellence.

The post NCC Honours Top Staff Driving Nigeria’s Digital Transformation appeared first on Business Today NG.

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Customer Testimonial Highlights Why Mutual Benefits Assurance Stands Out

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BY NKECHI NAECHE-ESEZOBOR—In a time when confidence in insurance is steadily growing, a satisfied customer of Mutual Benefits Assurance Plc is sharing his experience to encourage more Nigerians to embrace the value of protection and peace of mind.

Mr. Abdelhamid Abdelrahman of RAP Building Solutions Ltd recently applauded the company for its swift claims settlement and attentive customer service, describing his journey as clear evidence that insurance truly works when managed by a dependable provider.

Abdelrahman explained that his decision to insure his vehicles with the company was influenced by its strong reputation and visible presence within his business environment in Lagos. Easy access to one of its offices also gave him added confidence, allowing for seamless interaction and support whenever needed. Four years on, he remains a loyal customer.

He said: “I had my doubts at some point, thinking that because they are one of the oldest insurance companies, perhaps their service might not be as efficient. But when I had a vehicle claim in 2023, it was processed in no time.

He added that subsequent claims involving other vehicles in his fleet were handled just as efficiently, further strengthening his confidence in the company.

“Since then, I have felt that whenever I have a vehicle, I will always subscribe to their packages and services. Mutual Benefits may be one of the oldest, but they are still one of the most responsive insurance companies in Nigeria. Their response to customers’ questions and feedback is very fast. I have no regrets partnering with them,” he stated.

Abdelrahman also used the opportunity to encourage Nigerians who remain sceptical about insurance to reconsider their views.

“Many people believe insurance does not work in Nigeria, but it does. When the time comes to make a claim and it is handled smoothly, then you know insurance truly works,” he said.

Industry experts have repeatedly noted that prompt claims settlement remains one of the strongest indicators of trust and credibility in the insurance sector. According to analysts, customers are more likely to retain policies, renew coverage and recommend insurers when claims are paid quickly and transparently.

They explain that efficient claims management not only provides financial relief during difficult times but also helps improve public perception of insurance as a dependable financial safety net. In markets where scepticism exists, real customer experiences and timely claims payments often play a critical role in driving adoption.

Mutual Benefits Assurance Plc has consistently positioned prompt claims settlement as a core part of its customer promise, with billions of naira paid out monthly across life and general insurance categories.

As economic uncertainties continue to heighten the need for financial protection, stakeholders say insurers that deliver swift and seamless claims experiences are likely to enjoy stronger customer loyalty and wider market acceptance.

The post Customer Testimonial Highlights Why Mutual Benefits Assurance Stands Out appeared first on Business Today NG.

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