Yobe Sesame Farmers Excited About New Processing Hubs

Sesame farmers in Yobe State are pleased with the establishment of sesame processing plants, which will boost annual production to over 60,000 tonnes and improve the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR). The Yobe government invested N3.5 billion in building four modern factories in Machina, Potiskum, Nguru, and Damaturu. These plants will prevent adulteration of sesame seeds, encourage local cultivation, and stop farmers from exporting jobs by processing seeds locally. The facilities are expected to enhance job creation, meet export standards, and promote Yobe as a significant sesame supplier. Source: DailyTrust

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The establishment of sesame processing plants in Yobe State marks a significant advancement for local farmers and the region’s economy. These facilities are set to enhance annual sesame production to over 60,000 tonnes, boosting the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) and providing job opportunities for the community. The new plants will address previous issues of adulteration, where farmers mixed sesame seeds with sand to increase weight. With modern processing and packaging facilities in Machina, Potiskum, Nguru, and Damaturu, the quality of Yobe’s sesame seeds will meet international standards, improving marketability and reducing rejection rates in global markets. Local farmers, such as Rabiu Adamu, express optimism that the processing centers will eliminate the need to transport seeds to other states, thereby retaining jobs and economic benefits within Yobe. The facilities also position Yobe as a major supplier of high-quality sesame seeds to markets in Qatar, South Korea, and beyond. These developments are expected to foster wealth creation, youth and women employment, and overall economic growth in Yobe State, aligning with Governor Mai Mala Buni’s vision for economic development.