By Jide Akinseye
The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development has approved the release of MoorBeta, a newly developed indigenous meat-type chicken breed aimed at enhancing poultry production and strengthening food security in Nigeria.
According to Tribune of March 31, 2026, the improved breed was officially welcomed and approved for release and registration on March 26, 2026, by the National Crop Varieties and Livestock Breeds Registration and Release Committee (NVRC) at the National Centre for Genetic Resources and Biotechnology (NACGRAB) in Ibadan, Oyo State.
MoorBeta was developed by the Poultry Research Team of the Institute of Agricultural Research and Training (IAR&T), Obafemi Awolowo University, Moor Plantation, Ibadan, following over a decade of intensive breeding work involving both indigenous and exotic meat-type chickens.
The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development collaborated closely with the institute and is represented on the NVRC.
The Ministry stated that the new breed is specifically designed to meet the needs of smallholder farmers, with the capacity to thrive under diverse environmental conditions across the country.
At just 10 weeks, MoorBeta attains an average live weight of approximately 2.8 kilograms, while demonstrating improved feed efficiency and survival rates exceeding 95 percent.
Asides the growth performance, the breed is also noted for its consumer appeal. Its meat is described as tender and juicy, with minimal loss during cooking.
Officials noted that the release of MoorBeta aligns with ongoing efforts to improve local livestock breeds, increase agricultural productivity, and enhance food and nutrition security nationwide.
The Ministry stated its commitment to continued collaboration with research institutions and stakeholders to drive innovation in the livestock sector, improve farmers’ incomes, and ensure sustainable food systems across Nigeria.
