Turmeric Research in Nigeria: Challenges and Prospects for Food Security

Abstract

This paper is on Turmeric research, challenges, and prospects for food security. The paper seeks to review the agronomic, economic, and potentials of the crop and increased popularization and utilization of the crop in Nigeria. It relied on information from secondary sources such as documented relevant review literature on turmeric, NRCRI Annual Reports, and field experience of Researchers. Turmeric is used as a food spice and a major component of curry powder, as medicine for the prevention and treatment of diverse kinds of diseases, as cosmetics and as a dye for colouring fabrics but this potential has not been fully tapped as the techniques needed for its production have not been properly understood by the farmers which have led to low production and utilization. To date, the potential of turmeric as a food secured crop is still unveiling gradually. Recent discoveries about this minor root crop are not only nutritious but have the capacity to keep the human body 68% fit each day. The National Root Crops Research Institute, Umudike has taken steps to make turmeric a crop of national and international interest in Nigeria. This paper, therefore, reviews the agronomic, potentials, challenges, and prospects of turmeric for economic growth in Nigeria.