NASC: Quality Seeds Key to Closing Nigeria’s Rice Production Gap and Strengthening Food Security

Nigeria faces a significant challenge in ensuring food security, with a 2.9 million tonne deficit in rice production. The National Agricultural Seeds Council (NASC) has emphasised that the solution lies in one simple but powerful tool: quality seeds.

Speaking at the opening of the 2026 Boot Camp on Plant Variety Protection and Intellectual Property in Abuja, NASC Director General, Fatuhu Muhammed, highlighted that widespread use of uncertified seeds is a major factor contributing to the current production shortfall. He stressed that adopting certified seeds is critical not only for increasing yields but also for building a climate-resilient agricultural sector capable of feeding Nigeria’s growing population.

The boot camp, organised by NASC and the Nigeria Plant Variety Protection Office with support from international partners including the International Union for the Protection of New Varieties of Plants, the World Intellectual Property Organization, and the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa, brought together 30 carefully selected participants from over 600 applicants nationwide. These participants, described as future leaders in agricultural innovation, include lawyers, plant breeders, and seed scholars.

Over the course of the week-long residential training, participants were equipped with the knowledge and skills to implement Nigeria’s Plant Variety Protection Act of 2021, a landmark legislation designed to safeguard the intellectual property of plant breeders and stimulate the development of improved crop varieties. By establishing a credible system for commercialising innovations, the initiative aims to attract investment into Nigeria’s seed industry while enhancing agricultural productivity.

The training programme reflects a broader strategy to strengthen national food security, empower farmers, and promote sustainable agriculture. By providing tools, knowledge, and regulatory support, NASC is positioning Nigeria to achieve greater self-sufficiency in staple crops and build resilience against climate-related challenges.

Muhammed concluded with a strong call to action: Nigeria must prioritise food self-sufficiency and quality seed adoption. The impact of these efforts will be felt not only on farms but across communities and the national economy, fostering innovation, inclusion, and sustainable development.

This initiative is a reminder that investing in agriculture, training, and innovation is critical for the country’s future, ensuring that both farmers and communities benefit from a more productive, resilient, and sustainable food system.