GIZ-supported project introduces four new climate-smart potato varieties in Nigeria

NIGERIA – Nigeria has taken a major step toward improving its potato sector with the release of four new climate-smart potato varieties under the GIZ-supported Nigeria Potato Seed Security Partnership (NPSSP) project.

The move seeks to secure the country’s seed supply and strengthen farmers’ ability to cope with rising climate challenges.

The NPSSP led the effort, marking the first time in more than ten years that Nigeria has introduced new potato types. The project focuses on addressing the long-standing problems of late blight and unpredictable weather, which have often destroyed potato yields across major growing areas.

The development received support from public and private organizations, with technical guidance from the International Potato Center (CIP) and financial backing from GIZ’s agricultural innovation and climate resilience programs.

The new varieties were bred to perform better under Nigeria’s changing weather conditions. They show strong resistance to late blight, a disease that can wipe out entire fields during wet seasons. The potatoes also maintain stable yields even when rainfall is inconsistent or temperatures are high.

“These varieties were developed to meet the real challenges that farmers face,” said a scientist from CIP involved in the trials. “They offer better resistance to disease, improved yield, and can adapt to different parts of Nigeria.”

By combining these features, the project aims to strengthen seed security and ensure that farmers have access to reliable planting material.

Field trials and farmer training

Before the official release, the four potato types went through extensive testing in various regions. Researchers checked how well they performed under local stress conditions and how they were received by farmers.

The official event took place during an open day organized by CIP and its partners. Farmers, policy experts, and other stakeholders attended the event to see demonstrations, receive planting materials, and take part in training sessions.

During the event, farmers learned about proper seed multiplication, disease control, and storage methods. “We want farmers to get the most from these varieties,” said a project coordinator. “Training and awareness are as important as the varieties themselves.”

Nigeria’s potato industry has faced frequent shortages of quality seed, high disease pressure, and low productivity. The introduction of these varieties comes at a time when climate variability is affecting food production across the country.

The new lines are expected to increase seed availability and reduce reliance on imports. Farmers who adopt them could see more consistent yields and better returns even in tough growing seasons.

CIP and GIZ plan to integrate the varieties into national extension programs and certification systems to ensure wide adoption. They also intend to build stronger public and private partnerships to expand seed multiplication and market access.

“This project is helping smallholder farmers build resilience,” said a representative from GIZ. “It shows that innovation and collaboration can secure Nigeria’s potato value chain.”

Recently, GIZ and partners have also supported similar initiatives in Kenya and Ethiopia to promote improved seed systems and climate-ready crops. These efforts reflect a broader push to build resilient food systems across Africa, ensuring that farmers can thrive even as weather patterns become more unpredictable.

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