NRCRI’s Innovation Wins National Patent — Nigeria Moves Forward in Agricultural Value-Addition & Wellness Industry

Umudike, Nigeria — Early January 2026 — The National Root Crops Research Institute (NRCRI) in Umudike, Abia State has achieved a major scientific and economic milestone with the federal government formally granting it a Certificate of Patents for a series of turmeric-based tea products. This innovation combines agricultural research with health and wellness value-addition — a development that underscores Nigeria’s growing strength in bio-innovation and the commercialization of indigenous crops.

Presidential Endorsement Highlights Nigeria’s Innovation Ecosystem

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu personally approved the patent certificate, which was presented to NRCRI by the Honourable Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh, SAN. The patent recognises NRCRI’s technological breakthrough in the formulation and production of three distinct turmeric-derived tea varieties using turmeric leaves and rhizomes — crops locally grown across Nigeria with strong nutritional and medicinal properties.

From Root Crop Research to Health & Economic Impact

NRCRI’s Executive Director and CEO, Professor Chiedozie Egesi, described the patent as a “landmark achievement” that reflects the institute’s unwavering dedication to:

• advancing scientific research and value-addition in agriculture,
• fostering commercialization of indigenous crops, and
• expanding Nigeria’s role in the herbal wellness and nutraceutical sector.

Turmeric is globally recognised for antioxidant, immune-boosting and health-promoting properties. By transforming the rhizomes and leaves into novel tea products, NRCRI not only adds economic value to a homegrown crop but also creates new market opportunities for farmers, processors, and small and medium-scale enterprises.

Why This Matters for Nigeria Forward

This development is significant for Nigeria’s agricultural and economic landscape because:

• It strengthens innovation-driven agriculture: Recognised by intellectual property law, the patent elevates the profile of agricultural R&D in Nigeria.
• It promotes value addition: By turning root and tuber crop research into marketable products, NRCRI helps move Nigeria beyond raw commodity exports toward value-added goods.
• It supports rural livelihoods: New product lines mean diversified income streams for farmers and local processors, deepening opportunities across agricultural value chains.

According to NRCRI’s mandate, the institute conducts research on the genetic improvement, production, processing, storage and utilization of economically important root crops — including yam, cassava, sweet potato, cocoyam, ginger, taro and turmeric — while also collaborating with extension services and federal agencies to reach farming communities