Millet

Nigeria’s Millet Production: A Cornerstone of Agriculture and Nutrition

Welcome to the world of millet in Nigeria, a key focus for UNR Agro Allied Ltd. As the third-largest producer of millet in the world and the leading producer in Africa, Nigeria plays a crucial role in the global millet market. Millet, particularly pearl millet, is a staple food in many Nigerian homes and is integral to both food security and nutrition.

Production Volume and Quality

In 2022, Nigeria’s millet production was estimated at two million metric tons. Despite this significant output, there is still a shortfall in meeting the national demand. The federal government reported a deficit of 4.4 million metric tons, with the national demand for millet at 6.4 million metric tons. This gap highlights both the challenges and opportunities in Nigerian millet production.

Enhancing Millet Production

The focus on improving millet yields and nutritional value is paramount. Efforts are being made to expand millet production through effective advisory services and research and development. This includes promoting Good Agronomic Practices (GAP) to enhance farmers’ livelihoods and contribute to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

Nutritional and Culinary Importance

Millet is celebrated for its high nutritional content, being a rich source of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It is used in various traditional Nigerian dishes, including porridge, millet juice (kunu), and as a key ingredient in “fura” or “tukura”, popular beverages in northern Nigeria. These uses make millet an ideal choice for improving the nutritional outcomes of children and adults alike.

Global and Local Market Potential

With the rising global demand for nutritious and sustainable food sources, Nigerian millet has significant export potential. The International Year of Millets, celebrated in 2023, highlighted the need to increase global production, ensure efficient processing, and promote millets as a key component of the food basket.

UNR Agro Allied Ltd: Championing Nigerian Millet

At UNR Agro Allied Ltd, we are committed to harnessing the potential of Nigerian millet. We work closely with local farmers and engage in best practices to improve the quality and quantity of our millet production. Our goal is to meet both local and international demand, contributing to food security and economic development.