Agbu Kefas Unveils Taraba Seeds Ltd., Signals New Era for Nigeria’s Agricultural Productivity

In a move expected to significantly boost agricultural productivity and strengthen national food security, the Governor of Taraba State, Dr. Agbu Kefas, has officially unveiled Taraba Seeds Limited, a new company aimed at transforming seed development and distribution in Nigeria.

The launch of Taraba Seeds Ltd. marks a major milestone in efforts to strengthen the country’s agricultural value chain by expanding farmers’ access to high-quality, certified and climate-resilient seeds. The company is designed to serve farmers not only within Taraba State but across Nigeria, reinforcing the state’s growing reputation as a centre for agricultural innovation.

Speaking on the mandate of the company, the Founding Chairman, Mr. Prasad Karumanchi, said Taraba Seeds Ltd. will focus on the multiplication, processing and distribution of improved seed varieties adapted to Nigeria’s diverse agro-ecological zones.

“The company will begin with, but is not limited to, key crops such as rice, maize, cowpea and sorghum,” Karumanchi said, adding that the initiative is structured to meet the evolving needs of Nigerian farmers.
Beyond seed supply, the project is expected to deliver wide-ranging economic benefits.

The Honourable Commissioner for Agriculture in Taraba State, Prof. Nicholas Namessan, noted that Taraba Seeds Ltd. will contribute significantly to job creation and agribusiness growth.

“The initiative is expected to generate employment opportunities, stimulate agribusiness investments, and enhance incomes for smallholder farmers,” he said.

According to him, agricultural experts have described the company as a timely intervention that aligns with national efforts to modernise farming practices and increase local food production.
By bridging the gap between agricultural research institutions and farmers, Taraba Seeds Ltd. aims to accelerate the adoption of improved seed technologies, ensuring that scientific innovations translate into higher yields and improved livelihoods.

The Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Taraba Seeds Ltd., Dr. Dileepkumar Guntuku, emphasized the company’s commitment to quality assurance and strategic partnerships.

“We will work closely with research institutions, regulatory agencies and private sector partners to ensure seed quality, certification and widespread availability ahead of major planting seasons,” he said.

Early results from the initiative have already attracted attention within the farming community. The Chairman of the Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria (RIFAN), Honourable Tanko Bobbo, disclosed that he conducted adoption trials using seeds supplied by Taraba Seeds Ltd., recording impressive outcomes.

“We harvested 12 tonnes per hectare. I call them miracle rice seeds,” he said, highlighting the yield potential of the improved varieties.

Reaffirming the vision of his administration, Governor Kefas described the launch of Taraba Seeds Ltd. as a transformative milestone for both Taraba State and Nigeria’s agricultural sector.

“With the launch of Taraba Seeds Ltd., Taraba State is positioning itself at the forefront of Nigeria’s agricultural transformation—laying the groundwork for a seed revolution that promises stronger harvests, improved livelihoods and greater national food resilience,” the governor said.

With strong government support, private sector leadership and growing farmer engagement, Taraba Seeds Ltd. is poised to play a central role in Nigeria’s drive toward sustainable food production and long-term agricultural prosperity.