President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the issuance of a Certificate of Patent to the National Root Crops Research Institute (NRCRI), Umudike, Abia State, for the production of three innovative tea varieties derived from turmeric rhizomes and leaves.
The patent follows a recent technological breakthrough by NRCRI scientists in the formulation and production of turmeric-based teas, a caffeine-free nutraceutical rich in curcumin, known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties with potential benefits for heart health, digestion, brain function, mood regulation, arthritis management and metabolic wellness.
Confirming the development to journalists in Umuahia on Monday, the Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of NRCRI, Professor Chiedozie Egesi, said the patent certificate was presented to the institute by the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Mr. Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh, SAN.
Professor Egesi noted that the approval, granted in line with the Patent and Design Acts, Cap 344, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 1990, provides full legal recognition for the institute’s innovation.
Describing the patent as a landmark achievement, he said it reflects NRCRI’s commitment to scientific research, agricultural value addition, commercialization of indigenous crops and the growth of Nigeria’s herbal wellness and nutraceutical industry.
“Turmeric, globally acclaimed for its medicinal and immune-boosting qualities, has been transformed by our research team, led by Dr. Rachel Majekodunmi Omodamiro, into novel tea products with strong commercial and health potential,” Egesi said.
He added that the innovation is expected to stimulate enterprise development, create jobs and contribute meaningfully to the national economy, while strengthening Nigeria’s position in bio-innovation and natural products research.
Congratulating the researchers, Egesi said the federal government’s recognition underscores the growing strength of Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem and the untapped potential of indigenous crops in driving sustainable development.
NRCRI is statutorily mandated to conduct research on the genetic improvement, production, processing, storage and utilization of root and tuber crops, including yam, cassava, sweet potato, cocoyam, ginger and related species, while also supporting agricultural extension services and capacity-building programmes across the Southeast agro-ecological zone.
