Project grows genetically modified potatoes in Nigeria with 300% higher yields

The first year of trial cultivation of genetically modified potatoes in Nigeria has been completed, marking a significant milestone in agricultural research in Africa. The National Root Crops Research Institute (NRCRI), Umudike, has been a key partner in the implementation of these trials, coordinated by the African Agriculture Technology Foundation (AATF).

The project has tested the potatoes in three different locations: Kuru and Bokkos in Plateau and Kusuku in Taraba. According to Alex Abutu, AATF’s communications officer, these biotech potatoes have shown an outstanding yield advantage, outperforming conventional varieties by more than 300%.

Its resistance to late blight has also been confirmed, as already indicated by the trials of this genetically modified potato conducted under the Global Biotech Feed the Future Potato Partnership (GBPP), coordinated by Michigan State University. In fact, in the first year of the trial, it is observed that 80-100% of the non-biotech potatoes died due to late blight. In contrast, the biotech potatoes showed exceptional resistance, with 100% of the modified plants showing no symptoms of the disease.

This project not only highlights the potential of biotechnology in agriculture, but also illuminates a path towards food security and sustainable development in Nigeria and beyond. With these developments, Nigeria positions itself as a leader in the adoption of innovative agricultural technologies in Africa.