BT (Bacillus thurigiensis) Cotton cultivation in Nigeria, A Panacea towards Poverty alleviation

Abstract

Cotton production has been a good contributor to the gross domestic product of Nigeria, especially in the 1960s and 1970s but the contribution of cotton to Nigeria GDP dropped significantly from 25% in 1980 to 5% in the present day. Out of 51 ginneries which were in operation across the country in the 1980s only 10 are currently operating at low capacity. Biotic factor especially insect pest reduced production of cotton. Despite all these factors production continued on a small and medium scale farmer. One of the agriculture best defences against the plant eating insect is BT fortification, Bt cotton refers to a transgenic cotton which contains endotoxins protein inducing gene obtained from soil bacterium Bacill us thuringiensis. It was developed to reduce the heavy reliance on pesticides which can either be spread on the surface of crops to provide temporary protection or can be genetically engineered into the crop to protect it against insect through out the lifespan of the plant has allowed the growers to avoid applying large quantity of toxic insecticide. How ever the widespread use of Bt in many parts of the world has prompted concern that some day become resistant to BT. This is a valid concern that has engaged agricultural researchers before BT crops reach the market. Although the technique is still young and have not been understood by many, they have contributed immensely to the development of many new forms. Many people have critise the use of BT, nevertheless the advantage still overwhelm the disadvantage, and it remains the best option to solve the problem reliance on pesticides in Nigeria. This paper discusses the economic impact of BT COTTON AND how it can be used to increase yield, profit, and living standards of small holder farmers.it also highlights how Nigeria being a tropical country can benefit from introduction and cultivation of BT Cotton.