Nigeria’s Sesamum Seeds Export Fall 41% in 2025

News in Brief:

-Nigeria’s sesamum seed exports fell by over 41% in the first half of 2025, reversing the strong growth seen in previous years.

-The drop is linked to lower production caused by insecurity and limited access to farm inputs in key producing regions.

Latest data from Nigeria’s statistics office shows that sesamum seed exports from the country dropped by more than 41% in the first six months of 2025—a sharp contrast to the consistent growth seen in previous years.

Between 2022 and 2023, export values for the corresponding period rose from ₦81.5 billion to ₦106 billion, followed by a dramatic 230% surge in 2024. This year’s decline marks a significant setback for the sector, especially for smallholder farmers who account for most of the country’s sesame production.

In Nigeria’s northern regions—particularly Jigawa, Nasarawa, Benue, and Sokoto—farmers cultivate sesame and sell it to wholesalers for export. Major destinations for Nigerian-grown sesamum seeds include Europe, the United States, Canada, Saudi Arabia, and several Asian countries.

Limited Local Use and Declining Production

While a drop in exports could, in theory, indicate greater local use for food or industrial purposes, that is not the case here. Sesame remains an export-driven crop, with about 90% of Nigeria’s output shipped abroad.

In the European Union, roughly 50% of sesame seeds are used as toppings for bread, bagels, and other baked goods. They also feature prominently in Asian, Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern cuisines for their distinctive flavour and texture. Approximately 35% of sesame seeds are used in food processing for products such as tahini, hummus, and salad dressings. Sesame oil, valued for its culinary and cosmetic applications, is another major derivative.

Nigeria largely exports raw sesame seeds, with minimal processing, mainly involving dehulling. Therefore, a decline in export numbers most likely reflects a drop in production, linked to worsening insecurity and limited access to farm inputs such as seeds and fertilisers.

Recent reports indicate that many farmers in the North now require armed protection during planting and harvesting seasons. Meanwhile, data from AFEX suggests a decline in the number of farmers using quality inputs, further compounding the sector’s challenges.