The approval and release of MoorBeta has been welcomed by the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development.
MoorBeta is “an improved indigenous meat-type chicken developed to support poultry production and food security in Nigeria”, the Ministry said.
The approval for release and registration of the new breed was given by the National Crop Varieties and Livestock Breeds Registration and Release Committee (NVRC) on March 26, 2026, at the National Centre for Genetic Resources and Biotechnology (NACGRAB), Ibadan, Oyo State, the Ministry revealed.
The new indigenous meat-type chicken was developed by the Poultry Research Team of the Institute of Agricultural Research and Training (IAR&T), Obafemi Awolowo University, Moor Plantation, Ibadan “after more than a decade of breeding work involving indigenous and exotic meat-type chickens”.
A cost analysis in 2025 shows that, in a production cycle of “10 weeks”, rearing “100 birds can generate a net profit exceeding N278,000”, the Ministry said on X.
According to the Ministry: “The breed is suited for smallholder farmers, with the ability to perform well under different environmental conditions across the country. At 10 weeks, MoorBeta reaches an average live weight of about 2.8kg, with improved feed efficiency and survival rates above 95 percent.
“Beyond its impressive growth, the bird possesses qualities that make it attractive to both farmers and consumers. Its meat is tender, juicy, and retains quality with minimal cooking loss.
“In appearance, it is predominantly white with speckles of brown, black, or red, features a large single comb, and has a well-developed body that supports higher meat yield.
“It also demonstrates tolerance to heat stress, making it well suited for poultry production in tropical climates.
“The release of MoorBeta supports efforts to improve local livestock breeds, increase productivity, and strengthen food and nutrition security.”
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Photo: ‘MoorBeta’ Chicken
