Introduction
Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage and diverse geography have given rise to a diverse array of yams, each with unique characteristics and uses. From the savannas to the forests, Nigeria’s landscape supports yam cultivation, making it an integral part of our agricultural narrative. As a major yam producer, Nigeria has a great advantage in cultivating a variety of yam species across its regions.
Why Yam?
Yam is deeply ingrained in Nigerian culture, with a specific word for it in every tribe’s language. Unlike rice, which has become a costly staple, yam is a God-given staple food that the Nigerians have abandoned in pursuit of more expensive options. It is now time to rediscover yam cultivation, embracing the varieties that our forefathers enjoyed. Nigeria’s yam diversity is a treasure of nutritional and economic potential.
Nigeria’s Yam Diversity
Nigeria’s yam diversity includes White yam (Dioscorea rotundata), Yellow yam (Dioscorea cayenensis), Water yam (Dioscorea alata), Purple yam (Dioscorea bulbifera), Puna yam (Dioscorea esculenta), and Zazzau Yam. These varieties boast unique qualities, such as the White yam’s suitability for pounded yam, the Yellow yam’s sweetness perfect for porridge, the Water yam’s sweet and starchy flavor, the Purple yam’s deep purple skin and sweet, nutty flavor, the Puna yam’s small size and sweetness, and the Zazzau Yam’s small size, round shape, thin skin, sweet taste, and drought tolerance, making each an excellent choice for various culinary and agricultural purposes.
The Zazzau Yam (Dioscorea spp.)
Zazzau Yam stands out for its exceptional qualities: small size – typically weighing 0.5-1.5 kg Round or oval shape; thin, smooth skin with a brown or yellowish-brown color; sweet taste – with a slightly nutty flavor and firm, starchy texture; drought tolerance and an early maturity (4-6 months) – making it suitable and ideal for cultivation in areas with limited water supply.
Conclusion
Zazzau yam has the potential to revolutionize Nigeria’s food security. With its high starch content and versatility in cooking, it’s an ideal crop for Nigerians, especially in the northern regions with vast arable lands. Aggressive cultivation of Zazzau yam can significantly boost Nigeria’s food production and contribute to food sufficiency. It is time to rediscover the potential of yam in Nigeria and harness its power to achieve sustainable food security.
