Gov. Buni Revolutionising Sesame Seed Processing In Yobe – Official
By Muhammad Maitela, Damaturu
Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State has taken bold steps to leverage the state’s agricultural potential, including the processing of Sesame seeds for export, to boost the economy of the state.
The spokesperson of the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Tourism and Solid Minerals, Suleiman Baba Gimba, made this known in an interview with The Syndicate in Damaturu.
Baba Gimba said the establishment of four sesame seeds processing factories by the governor will catapult production and supply of the product to markets within and outside the country.
He added that the state will contribute more to the current 46,100 metric tonnes being produced annually.
“The state has long been a hub for sesame farming, a crop valued for its versatility and high economic returns.
“Sesame seeds are not just consumed as snacks; they are used extensively in households for cooking, in bakeries, confectioneries, and for various industrial purposes.
“Yobe sesame seeds are categorized by color into two main types white and brown or mixed. The white sesame seeds are classified as food-grade suitable for baking, confectionery, and retail packaging, while the brown or mixed varieties are oil-grade, favoured for their high oil content and primarily used in sesame oil production,” the official said.
Accordin to him, before the setting up of the four factories by the governor, the state has been unable to fully harness the economic potential of the crop.
“Despite Yobe’s significant contribution to Nigeria’s sesame production, the state had, until now, been unable to fully harness the economic potential of the crop.
“Farmers faced challenges in processing and packaging their produce to meet international standards, which limited their access to lucrative global markets.”
Baba Gimba said it was in recognition of this gap that Governor Buni prioritised the modernisation of the sesame value chain to meet international standards and enhance the state’s economy.
“The visionary leadership of Governor Mai Mala Buni has led to the construction of four state-of-the-art sesame seed processing factories in Machina, Nguru, Potiskum, and Damaturu.
“These facilities, now completed and awaiting commissioning, are meant to elevate the quality of sesame seeds to meet international standards.
“Each factory is equipped with cutting-edge technology capable of processing six tonnes of sesame seeds per hour.
“This advancement will not only enhance the efficiency of sesame production in the state but also ensure that farmers have good returns at each farming season in addition to boosting the economic status of the state,” he added.
