Rice production in Nigeria has surpassed 5 million tonnes yearly since 2016. In spite of this, only 57 percent of the metric tons of rice consumed in Nigeria each year is produced locally, resulting in a 3 million metric tons deficit that is either imported or smuggled into the country illegally. This is despite the government’s ban on rice imports, which has been in effect since 2019.
Nigeria in 2020 became the largest producer of rice in Africa and the 14th largest producer in the world, despite this, the country is yet to reach self-sufficiency and the illegal rice smuggling business is still thriving in spite of the many deterrents introduced by the government.
To reach self-sufficiency, experts have suggested improved mechanisation to increase yield and support for local farmers.
Festivities in Nigeria often equal huge consumption of rice in different varieties especially the famous “naija jollof” and other varieties.
Is the rice in your pot locally produced? Asides from contributing to growing Nigeria’s economy by buying Nigerian-made rice, local rice is said to be healthier.