The National Root Crops Research Institute (NRCRI) Umudike Abia state has made another significant breakthrough following the approval of its three new crop varieties by the National Committee on Naming, Registration and Release of Crop Varieties, Livestock Breeds and Fisheries during its 36th meeting held on 26th of march 2026 at the National Centre for Genetic Resources and Biotechnology (NACGRAB) Ibadan.The three new approved Crop Varieties are two early-maturing White Yams named UMUDr37 and UMUDr38, including one Improved Potato Variety named ‘CONNECT’ which are to enhance food security and nutrition in Nigeria.
The newly approved varieties are expected to transform the yam and potato value chains, enhance farmer productivity, strengthen food security, and open new opportunities for local and international markets”
Chairman of the National Variety Release Committee, Professor OO Olufajo, disclosed that the varieties underwent rigorous evaluation to ensure they meet the productivity, resilience, and quality requirements of Nigerian farmers.
While the Key features of UMUDr37 (Primeoval) are early maturing with a yield potential of 45.8 tons per hecter , high dry matter content (35.4%), and excellent boiling and pounding qualities, those of UMUDr38 (Mazamaza) are also early maturing with a yield potential of 32.6 tons per hecter, good dry matter content (31.5%), and adaptability across all yam-producing zones in Nigeria.
The “Connect” Potato Variety is high-yielding, disease-resistant, and widely accepted by consumers.
Speaking on this latest commendable NRCRI breakthrough, Professor Chiedozie Egesi, Executive Director/CEO of NRCRI, stated that the approval of the three new crop varieties is a testament to Nigeria’s robust agricultural research system and effective strategic partnerships. He emphasized that the release of these varieties demonstrates the country’s commitment to transforming its agricultural sector, ensuring food security, and building climate resilience, while also promoting private sector involvement in seed systems.
According to Professor Egesi, the improved varieties are designed to be early maturing, high-yielding, climate-smart, nutrition-focused, and disease resistant, ultimately enhancing farmer productivity, improving livelihoods, and contributing to national food and nutrition security.
He therefore commended the dedication of the NRCRI scientists led by Dr Charles Amadi, for making theVarietal release a reality, emphasizing that the Institute remains at the forefront of delivering science-driven solutions to meet the country’s growing food demand.