Today 10th November 2025, in a landmark stride for agricultural innovation and nutrition security, the National Cereals Research Institute (NCRI), Badeggi, has officially handed over 15 metric tonnes of Zinc Biofortified Rice to HarvestPlus, with support from the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA).
The handing-over ceremony, held at NCRI Headquarters, Badeggi, was led by the Executive Director, Dr. Mohammed Ndagi Ishaq, who was joined by members of the Institute’s Management Team. The event marks another giant step in Nigeria’s drive toward nutrition-sensitive agriculture and food system transformation.
The Zinc Biofortified Rice, the first of its kind in Africa, was developed through rigorous research efforts to combat hidden hunger and improve public health by providing a rich dietary source of zinc — an essential micronutrient for growth and immunity.
Dr. Ishaq reaffirmed NCRI’s commitment to supporting the vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR and the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, under the leadership of Senator Abubakar Kyari and Senator Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, in driving food security and agricultural innovation across Nigeria.
The milestone showcases the Institute’s leadership in research excellence and reflects It’s growing impact in advancing sustainable and nutrition-smart agriculture in Africa.
NCRI Badeggi – Pioneering Zinc Biofortified Rice for a Healthier Africa.