National Root Crops Research
Institute (NRCRI)
Location
Km 8, Umuahia-Ikot Ekpene Road, P.M.B 7006, Umuahia, Abia State, Nigeria.
Website
www.nrcri.gov.nginfo@nrcri.gov.ng
Phone
0816 387 9811
OVERVIEW
The National Root Crops Research Institute (NRCRI) is a premier agricultural research institution in Nigeria dedicated to advancing the development and utilization of root and tuber crops. Established in 1923 and elevated in 1975 as a major crop commodity research institute, NRCRI focuses on improving food security, reducing poverty, and driving sustainable agricultural practices through cutting-edge research, technology dissemination, and stakeholder engagement.
Historical Background
NRCRI began as a Provincial Experimental Farm under British colonial administration in 1923. Over the decades, it evolved into a full-fledged commodity research institute, addressing the genetic improvement, production, processing, and marketing of economically important crops such as yam, cassava, sweet potato, cocoyam, and ginger. It has consistently played a key role in Nigeria's agricultural transformation and development.
Our Vision
To be a global center of excellence for root and tuber crop research and development.
Our Mission
To develop sustainable agricultural technologies for root and tuber crops to enhance productivity, improve livelihoods, and ensure food security.
Our Mandate
1. Conduct research on the genetic improvement, cultivation, and utilization of root and tuber crops.
2. Develop solutions for challenges in storage, processing, and marketing of root and tuber crops.
3. Provide extension services and training for stakeholders in the South-East Agro-Ecological Zone and beyond
Strategic Focus Areas
Research and Development
Enhancing the genetic potential and resilience of root
tuber crops.
Extension and Training
Bridging the gap between research
outputs and farmer adoption.
Sustainable Practices
Promoting eco-friendly farming
techniques and post-harvest
technologies.
Key Achievements
Development of improved high-yielding and disease-resistant varieties of cassava, yam, and sweet potato
Empowerment of smallholder farmers through training programs in sustainable agricultural practices and value chain development.
Significant contributions to Nigeria's status as the global leader in cassava and yam production.
Partnerships
NRCRI collaborates with several international and national organizations, including:
International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA): Enhancing research on pest-resistant varieties.
Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation: Supporting food security projects.
Cornell University and Michigan State University: Advancing research methodologies.
Current Initiatives
Root and Tuber Breeding Project (RTB): Developing climate-resilient varieties to mitigate the effects of climate change on agriculture.
Post-Harvest Management Program: Reducing food waste and increasing shelf life through innovative storage techniques.
Impact and Contribution to SDGs
NRCRI’s efforts align with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by addressing hunger (SDG 2), promoting sustainable agriculture (SDG 12), and fostering partnerships for development (SDG 17).
With its rich history, strategic initiatives, and unwavering commitment to agricultural development, NRCRI continues to be a vital player in enhancing Nigeria's agricultural productivity and ensuring sustainable national food security.