Scientists at Nigeria’s National Roots Crops Research Institute, NRCRI have been given the responsibility to enhance Technologies in potatoes. This includes improving potato varieties’ resistance to bacteria wilt and nematodes, along with effective potato virus management, to secure the nation’s food supply.
Potato Green Field Day
During the recent Potato Green Field Day at Plateau State University, Bokkos, potato farmers received hands-on training and practical demonstrations in multilocational confined field trials.
Kahya Shuaibu, the Trial Manager of the Global Biotech Potato Partnership, GBPP emphasized the significance of technology in potato production. Shuaibu who is a key figure in the Potato Research Programme at NRCRI, emphasized that, “Such advancements will bolster yield, ensure consistent supply, and enhance the economic empowerment of farmers.”
Shuaibu further explained, “Greenfield days serve the dual purpose of promoting the adoption of new technologies and Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) in target crops, resulting in increased yields and sustainable income for farmers, ultimately improving their livelihoods.”
He highlighted the threat posed by potato late blight. This has had severe impacts on food security in Nigeria, particularly in Plateau State, a major potato-producing region. Shuaibu mentioned, “In 2022, about 32,000 hectares of potatoes were destroyed by the disease in Plateau State.”
In response to this crisis, stakeholders recommended immediate actions. This include the procurement and distribution of two recommended fungicides, rapid multiplication of early maturing potato varieties through tissue culture techniques, and the commercial release of late blight-resistant Biotech Potatoes.
Shuaibu noted that ongoing multilocational confined trials aim to assess the effectiveness of late blight-resistant Biotech potatoes, evaluate their performance under rain-fed conditions, and determine growth and yield without fungicide application. Promising events will be released for commercial use in Nigeria.
Scientific Development in Potato Production
He urged NRCRI scientists to continue developing technologies for improved potato varieties, resistance to diseases, and urged farmers to adhere to GAP for increased yields.
Dr. Christian Nwadili, the Coordinator of the Potato Programme at NRCRI, stressed the importance of promoting biotech potatoes to enhance productivity and resilience to pests and diseases, stating, “Potatoes are a staple food for millions of Nigerians and a vital source of income, especially in Plateau state.”
The Green Field Day provided farmers with practical insights into embracing technology in potato farming to address these challenges.
