Cross River State has commenced statewide distribution of improved SAMPEA 20-T PBR cowpea seeds as part of an agricultural intervention aimed at supporting farmers, production and food security.
The Cross River government publication said the distribution began on September 21, 2026, under the Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation Development. Commissioner Johnson Andiambey Ebokpo said the improved variety was developed by the Institute for Agricultural Research.
SAMPEA 20-T was described as having high genetic purity and resistance to Maruca vitrata, a major pod-borer pest affecting cowpea. The state also cited early maturity, improved yield performance and reduced dependence on insecticide applications compared with susceptible conventional varieties.
The intervention is intended to support farmers' productivity and livelihoods while improving cowpea availability. The government said the programme is particularly relevant to food security and access to nutritious food.
Distribution is being carried out with the state chapters of the Cowpea Farmers Association and Women in Agriculture. Interested farmers have been directed to their respective Local Government Councils for documentation and collection.
The agriculture ministry advised beneficiaries to follow the designated collection arrangements and stressed that the distributed seeds are intended strictly for planting rather than human consumption.
Track subnational policy execution, fiscal performance, and security conditions across Nigeria's 36 states and FCT on the live terminal.
Explore Macro Intelligence Terminal →