Otobi outstation, situated in Benue State, Nigeria, is an integral component of the National Root Crops Research Institute (NRCRI) based in Umuahia, Abia State. The NRCRI’s primary mandate revolves around the research into the genetic improvement, production, processing, storage, utilization, and socio-economies of root and tuber crops of economic importance in Nigeria. Otobi outstation plays a pivotal role in fulfilling this mandate within its geographical location.

The National Root Crops Research Institute, with its headquarters on the outskirts of Umuahia, was established as a provincial research station in 1923. Over the years, it has evolved to become a cornerstone in Nigeria’s agricultural research, particularly in the domain of root and tuber crops. The institute’s efforts are geared towards ensuring food security and enhancing the production, processing, and marketing of value-added products from root and tuber crops to achieve national food sufficiency and economic stability 

Otobi outstation, under the leadership of Dr. Okereke as the Head of Station embodies the NRCRI’s commitment to its national mandate. The outstation’s activities include conducting research and implementing projects that align with the institute’s goals of improving the livelihoods of farmers and stakeholders within the root and tuber crop value chain. This includes addressing challenges related to crop diseases, as highlighted in research focusing on the effect of fertilizer type on the leaf spot disease of sweet potato in Otobi and other locations within Benue State 

The strategic positioning of Otobi outstation allows it to serve as a vital link between the research initiatives of the NRCRI and the agricultural community in Benue State and its environs. By fostering advancements in root and tuber crop research and development, Otobi outstation contributes significantly to the overarching objectives of the NRCRI, thereby playing a crucial role in enhancing food security and economic development in Nigeria.