Kefas Unveils Taraba Seeds Firm, Signals New Era For Nigeria’s Agricultural Productivity

Taraba State governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, has unveiled Taraba Seeds Limited, a seed development and distribution company projected to boost agricultural productivity and strengthen Nigeria’s food security architecture.

The initiative was designed to expand farmers’ access to high-quality, certified and climate-resilient seeds, positioning Taraba State as a growing hub for agricultural innovation while serving farmers across Nigeria.

Speaking at the unveiling, the founding Ccairman of the company, Mr. Prasad Karumanchi, said Taraba Seeds Ltd. would focus on the multiplication, processing and distribution of improved seed varieties suited 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 was structured to meet the evolving needs of Nigerian farmers.

Beyond seed availability, the project is expected to deliver broader economic gains, including job creation and agribusiness expansion.

The Taraba State Commissioner for Agriculture, Prof. Nicholas Namessan, said the company would significantly impact rural livelihoods and agricultural investment.

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

Namessan noted that agricultural experts have described the establishment of Taraba Seeds Ltd. as a timely intervention aligned with national efforts to modernise farming practices and boost local food production.

By strengthening the link between agricultural research institutions and farmers, the company aims to accelerate the adoption of improved seed technologies and translate scientific innovation into higher yields and improved livelihoods.

The Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Taraba Seeds Ltd., Dr. Dileepkumar Guntuku, said the company was prioritising quality assurance and strategic collaboration.

“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 drawn attention within the farming community. The Chairman of the Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria (RIFAN), Hon. Tanko Bobbo, disclosed that adoption trials using seeds supplied by the company produced remarkable results.

“We harvested 12 tonnes per hectare. I call them miracle rice seeds,” he said.

Reaffirming his administration’s agricultural vision, Governor Kefas described the unveiling of Taraba Seeds Ltd. as a transformative step for both the state and the nation.

“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 backing, private sector leadership and growing farmer engagement, Taraba Seeds Ltd. is expected to play a key role in Nigeria’s drive towards sustainable food production and long-term agricultural prosperity.