How Nigeria’s Agriculture Is Quietly Feeding the World
You may not see “Made in Nigeria” tags on supermarket shelves, but chances are, you’ve already tasted a piece of Nigeria, somewhere, somehow. From the sesame in your favourite energy bar to the cocoa in your favourite chocolate beverage, Nigerian agro-products play a powerful role in feeding the world.
Sesame Seeds
Nigeria is one of the world’s top producers and exporters of sesame, supplying markets in Japan, China, Turkey, and the Middle East. In 2023 alone, Nigeria exported over 450,000 metric tonnes of sesame seeds, generating hundreds of millions of dollars in revenue.
Though largely grown by smallholder farmers in states like Benue, Jigawa, and Nassarawa, Nigeria’s sesame industry is highly export-focused.
Cocoa
Nigeria is Africa’s third-largest cocoa exporter, behind Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana, and supplies over 60 countries globally. Most of Nigeria’s cocoa comes from states like Ondo, Cross River, and Ekiti.
According to the International Cocoa Organization (ICCO), Nigeria exported more than 280,000 metric tonnes of cocoa in 2022, feeding into the supply chains of global giants like Nestlé, Mondelez, and Ferrero. The country’s cocoa is especially valued for its rich flavour and lower acidity, making it a preferred blend for dark chocolate.
Cashew Nuts
Nigeria is one of the top 10 producers of raw cashew nuts globally, and in 2021, it exported over 220,000 metric tonnes, according to the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC).
With increased global demand for healthy, plant-based snacks, Nigeria’s cashew industry is expanding. States like Kogi, Kwara, and Enugu have become hubs of activity, and local processors are moving up the value chain, roasting, packaging, and shipping cashews to markets in Europe, Vietnam, and India.
Ginger and Hibiscus
Nigeria is also a world leader in ginger exports, ranked among the top three global suppliers. In 2023, the country exported more than 100,000 metric tonnes of ginger, mostly to the US, UK, and India (ITC Trade Map).
Hibiscus flowers, also known as “zobo”, are another export gem. Popular in herbal teas and food colouring, Nigerian hibiscus exports reached over $35 million in 2022, with Mexico and Europe leading as major buyers.
What the World Is Beginning to See
The quiet but steady rise of Nigerian agriculture in the global commodity markets is no longer going unnoticed, and at Reaa Resources Management (RRM), we’re at the heart of this movement, bridging Nigerian farmers with global buyers. If you’re looking to tap into Nigeria’s agro-potential with confidence, visit www.reaarm.com and let RRM become your trusted sourcing partner.
27th July, 2025
