Top 10 Highest Yam Producing States in Nigeria (2024)

by Chizoba Ikenwa

Nigeria, the land of vibrant culture, rich history, and captivating natural beauty, stands as the undisputed king of yam production in the world. With an estimated annual output of over 38 million metric tons, accounting for over 60% of global yam production, Nigeria’s yam cultivation prowess is a testament to the country’s fertile lands, skilled farmers, and deep-rooted agricultural traditions.

Yams, the starchy, versatile tubers that hold a prominent place in Nigerian cuisine, have served as a staple food for centuries, providing sustenance and nourishment to generations of Nigerians. Their adaptability to diverse climatic conditions and their ability to thrive in various soil types have made them an integral part of Nigeria’s agricultural landscape.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

From the bustling yam markets of Benue State to the serene yam fields of Abia State, Nigeria’s yam cultivation story is one of resilience, innovation, and cultural heritage. Each region boasts its unique varieties of yams, each with its own distinct flavor, texture, and culinary applications.

In this blog, we embark on a journey to uncover the top 10 yam producing states in Nigeria, exploring their contributions to the country’s yam cultivation legacy. We’ll delve into the rich agricultural practices, the diverse yam varieties, and the cultural significance of yam in each region, painting a vivid picture of Nigeria’s yam-growing prowess.

NIGERIA’S TOP YAM PRODUCING STATES (2024)

Here are the ten (10) highest yam producing states in the country.

BENUE STATE: THE YAM KING

Benue State, nestled in the heart of Nigeria’s fertile North Central region, proudly reigns as the undisputed yam king of the country. With an annual yam output of over 4 million metric tons, accounting for over 50% of Nigeria’s total yam production, Benue State has firmly cemented its position as the epicenter of yam cultivation in Nigeria.

The state’s success in yam production can be attributed to a combination of factors, including its favorable climatic conditions, vast expanses of fertile land, and a long-standing tradition of yam cultivation. Benue’s soil, enriched by the nutrient-rich Benue River, provides an ideal environment for yams to flourish.

Benue State is home to a diverse array of yam varieties, each with its unique characteristics and culinary applications. The most popular yam varieties grown in Benue State include:

White Yam (Dioscorea rotundata): Known for its smooth, white skin and starchy flesh, white yam is a staple in Nigerian cuisine and is often used in preparing fufu, a versatile dough that can be served with various soups and stews.
Water Yam (Dioscorea alata): Distinguishable by its rough, brown skin and moist, yellow flesh, water yam is a popular choice for frying and boiling. It is also a good source of vitamins A and C.
Puna Yam (Dioscorea dumetorum): Characterized by its long, slender shape and creamy white flesh, puna yam is often used in preparing pounded yam, a traditional Nigerian dish made by pounding cooked yam into a smooth paste.

Benue State’s yam cultivation practices are deeply rooted in tradition, passed down through generations of farmers. However, the state has also embraced modern agricultural technologies, such as improved yam varieties, fertilizers, and pest control methods, to further enhance yields and quality.

The yam industry in Benue State plays a pivotal role in the state’s economy, providing employment and income for a significant portion of the population. It also contributes significantly to Nigeria’s overall yam export earnings.

Benue State’s yam production prowess has earned it the well-deserved title of “Nigeria’s Yam Breadbasket.” The state’s commitment to yam cultivation, coupled with its favorable conditions and skilled farmers, ensures that Benue will continue to reign as the yam king of Nigeria for years to come.

TARABA STATE: A YAM CHAMPION IN THE MAKING

Emerging as a formidable force in Nigeria’s yam cultivation arena is Taraba State, a state blessed with breathtaking natural beauty and fertile agricultural lands. While Taraba’s yam production may not yet rival that of Benue State, the state has made remarkable strides in recent years, positioning itself as a rising star in the yam industry.

Taraba’s success in yam cultivation can be attributed to several factors, including:

Adoption of improved yam varieties: Taraba State has been at the forefront of adopting improved yam varieties, which offer higher yields and resistance to pests and diseases.
Government support: The Taraba State government has played a crucial role in promoting yam cultivation through various initiatives, including providing farmers with access to quality inputs, training, and financial assistance.
Favorable climatic conditions: Taraba’s climate, characterized by well-distributed rainfall and warm temperatures, provides an ideal environment for yams to thrive.
Skilled farmers: Taraba boasts a long tradition of yam cultivation, and its farmers possess the expertise and knowledge to cultivate yams effectively.

Taraba State is home to a diverse range of yam varieties, including:

Gbaka (Dioscorea rotundata): This white yam variety is known for its high yield and adaptability to various soil conditions.
Gbure (Dioscorea alata): This water yam variety is popular for its moist flesh and sweetness.
Tashi (Dioscorea dumetorum): This puna yam variety is valued for its long storage life and resistance to pests.

Taraba State’s yam cultivation practices are a blend of traditional methods and modern techniques. Farmers often utilize traditional techniques, such as intercropping and mulching, to improve soil fertility and conserve moisture. They also incorporate modern practices, such as the use of improved yam varieties and fertilizers, to enhance yields and quality.

The yam industry in Taraba State plays a significant role in the state’s economy, providing employment and income for a substantial portion of the population. Yam cultivation also contributes to the state’s food security, ensuring a steady supply of this staple food for its residents.

Taraba State’s remarkable growth in yam production has earned it the title of “Nigeria’s Yam Champion in the Making.” With continued dedication to promoting yam cultivation and embracing innovative practices, Taraba is poised to become a major force in Nigeria’s yam industry.

NIGER STATE: A RISING STAR IN THE YAM REALM

Niger State, situated in the North Central region of Nigeria, is rapidly emerging as a significant player in the country’s yam production landscape. With its vast expanses of fertile land, favorable climatic conditions, and growing adoption of modern agricultural techniques, Niger State is poised to play an increasingly important role in Nigeria’s yam industry.

Niger’s success in yam cultivation can be attributed to several factors, including:

Strategic location: Niger State’s strategic location, bordering Benue State, a yam cultivation powerhouse, has facilitated the exchange of knowledge and expertise in yam farming practices.
Favorable climatic conditions: Niger’s climate, characterized by warm temperatures and well-distributed rainfall, provides an ideal environment for yams to thrive.
Fertile soil: Niger’s soil is rich in nutrients, making it suitable for cultivation of various yam varieties.
Growing adoption of modern techniques: Niger State has been actively promoting the adoption of modern yam cultivation techniques, such as the use of improved yam varieties, fertilizers, and pest control methods.

Niger State is home to a diverse range of yam varieties, including:

Gboro yam (Dioscorea rotundata): This white yam variety is known for its high yield and adaptability to various soil conditions.
Duala yam (Dioscorea alata): This water yam variety is popular for its sweet, moist flesh.
Eburu yam (Dioscorea dumetorum): This puna yam variety is valued for its long storage life and resistance to pests.

Niger State’s yam cultivation practices are a blend of traditional methods and modern techniques. Farmers often utilize traditional techniques, such as intercropping and mulching, to improve soil fertility and conserve moisture. They also incorporate modern practices, such as the use of improved yam varieties and fertilizers, to enhance yields and quality.

The yam industry in Niger State is playing an increasingly important role in the state’s economy, providing employment and income for a growing number of farmers. Yam cultivation also contributes to the state’s food security, ensuring a steady supply of this staple food for its residents.

Niger State’s remarkable growth in yam production has earned it the title of “Nigeria’s Rising Star in the Yam Realm.” With continued dedication to promoting yam cultivation and embracing innovative practices, Niger is poised to become a major force in Nigeria’s yam industry.

NASARAWA STATE: A YAM CULTIVATION HUB

Nasarawa State, situated in the North Central region of Nigeria, has established itself as a significant contributor to Nigeria’s yam production. The state’s favorable climatic conditions, fertile soil, and active agricultural extension services have made it a hub for yam cultivation.

Nasarawa’s success in yam production can be attributed to several factors, including:

Favorable climatic conditions: Nasarawa’s climate, characterized by warm temperatures and well-distributed rainfall, provides an ideal environment for yams to thrive.
Fertile soil: Nasarawa’s soil is rich in nutrients, making it suitable for cultivation of various yam varieties.
Effective agricultural extension services: The Nasarawa State Agricultural Development Program (NADP) has played a crucial role in providing farmers with access to training, improved yam varieties, and extension services, leading to increased yields and quality.
Strong market linkages: Nasarawa State benefits from well-established yam markets, facilitating the distribution of produce to local and national markets.

Nasarawa State is home to a diverse range of yam varieties, including:

Borno yam (Dioscorea rotundata): This white yam variety is known for its high yield and adaptability to various soil conditions.
Yellow yam (Dioscorea alata): This water yam variety is popular for its sweet, moist flesh.
Ede yam (Dioscorea dumetorum): This puna yam variety is valued for its long storage life and resistance to pests.

Nasarawa State’s yam cultivation practices are a blend of traditional methods and modern techniques. Farmers often utilize traditional techniques, such as intercropping and mulching, to improve soil fertility and conserve moisture.

ENUGU STATE: A YAM TRADITION

Enugu State, situated in the Southeastern region of Nigeria, holds a deep-rooted tradition of yam cultivation and reverence for this staple food. The state’s yam production is deeply intertwined with its culture and culinary heritage.

Enugu’s success in yam production can be attributed to several factors, including:

Cultural significance: Yams play a central role in Enugu’s cultural heritage, with yam festivals and ceremonies held annually to celebrate the harvest. This cultural significance has fostered a strong tradition of yam cultivation among the local communities.
Favorable climatic conditions: Enugu’s climate, characterized by warm temperatures and well-distributed rainfall, provides an ideal environment for yams to thrive.
Fertile soil: Enugu’s soil is rich in nutrients, making it suitable for cultivation of various yam varieties.
Indigenous knowledge and practices: Generations of yam cultivation in Enugu State have resulted in a wealth of indigenous knowledge and practices that are passed down through families and communities.

Enugu State is home to a diverse range of yam varieties, including:

Awgu yam (Dioscorea rotundata): This white yam variety is known for its high yield and adaptability to various soil conditions.
Nsukwa yam (Dioscorea alata): This water yam variety is popular for its sweet, moist flesh and long storage life.
Onyia yam (Dioscorea dumetorum): This puna yam variety is valued for its resistance to pests and diseases.

Enugu State’s yam cultivation practices are a blend of traditional methods and modern techniques. Farmers often utilize traditional techniques, such as intercropping and mulching, to improve soil fertility and conserve moisture. They also incorporate modern practices, such as the use of improved yam varieties and fertilizers, to enhance yields and quality.

The yam industry in Enugu State plays a significant role in the state’s economy, providing employment and income for a substantial portion of the population. Yam cultivation also contributes to the state’s food security, ensuring a steady supply of this staple food for its residents.

Enugu State’s deep-rooted tradition of yam cultivation and its cultural significance have earned it the title of “Nigeria’s Yam Heritage Keeper.” The state’s commitment to preserving its yam heritage while embracing modern practices ensures that Enugu will continue to be a major force in Nigeria’s yam industry.

KADUNA STATE: A YAM INNOVATOR

Kaduna State, situated in the Northwest region of Nigeria, has emerged as a pioneer in yam cultivation innovation. The state’s adoption of modern technologies and practices has transformed its yam industry, leading to increased yields, improved quality, and enhanced market access.

Kaduna’s success in yam production can be attributed to several factors, including:

Embracing modern technologies: Kaduna State has been at the forefront of adopting modern yam cultivation technologies, such as improved yam varieties, mechanized farming techniques, and precision agriculture tools.
Research and development: The state has invested heavily in yam research and development, leading to the development of high-yielding, pest-resistant yam varieties and innovative cultivation practices.
Farmer training and education: Kaduna State has implemented comprehensive farmer training programs to educate farmers on modern yam cultivation techniques, best practices, and post-harvest handling methods.
Public-private partnerships: The state has fostered strong public-private partnerships with agricultural research institutions, input suppliers, and yam processors to promote innovation and sustainability in the yam industry.

Kaduna State is home to a diverse range of yam varieties, including:

Dan Zaria yam (Dioscorea rotundata): This white yam variety is known for its high yield and adaptability to various soil conditions.
Dan Agwagwa yam (Dioscorea alata): This water yam variety is popular for its sweet, moist flesh and suitability for processing into flour.
Dan Daji yam (Dioscorea dumetorum): This puna yam variety is valued for its long storage life and resistance to pests and diseases.

Kaduna State’s yam cultivation practices are characterized by a blend of traditional knowledge and modern technologies. Farmers often utilize traditional techniques, such as intercropping and mulching, to improve soil fertility and conserve moisture. They also incorporate modern practices, such as the use of improved yam varieties, mechanized farming techniques, and precision agriculture tools, to enhance yields, quality, and efficiency.

The yam industry in Kaduna State plays a pivotal role in the state’s economy, providing employment and income for a significant portion of the population. Yam cultivation also contributes to the state’s food security and export earnings.

Kaduna State’s commitment to innovation and its pioneering role in adopting modern yam cultivation practices have earned it the title of “Nigeria’s Yam Innovator.” The state’s continued investment in research and development, farmer training, and public-private partnerships is poised to further strengthen its position as a leader in Nigeria’s yam industry.

OYO STATE: A YAM PIONEER

Oyo State, situated in the Southwestern region of Nigeria, has a long-standing reputation as a yam cultivation hub. The state’s fertile soil, favorable climatic conditions, and deep-rooted yam cultivation tradition have made it a major contributor to Nigeria’s yam production.

Oyo’s success in yam production can be attributed to several factors, including:

Rich agricultural heritage: Oyo State boasts a rich agricultural heritage, with yam cultivation being a central part of its culture and economy for generations.
Fertile soil: The state’s soil is rich in nutrients, making it suitable for cultivation of various yam varieties.
Favorable climatic conditions: Oyo’s climate, characterized by warm temperatures and well-distributed rainfall, provides an ideal environment for yams to thrive.
Agricultural research institutions: Oyo State is home to several renowned agricultural research institutions, such as the Institute of Agricultural Research and Training (IART) and the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), which have played a crucial role in developing improved yam varieties and promoting sustainable yam cultivation practices.

Oyo State is home to a diverse range of yam varieties, including:

Tolu yam (Dioscorea rotundata): This white yam variety is known for its high yield and adaptability to various soil conditions.
Gbadamu yam (Dioscorea alata): This water yam variety is popular for its sweet, moist flesh and suitability for processing into flour.
Ijesa yam (Dioscorea dumetorum): This puna yam variety is valued for its rich taste.

KOGI STATE: A YAM OASIS

Kogi State, situated in the North Central region of Nigeria, has emerged as a promising yam cultivation hub. The state’s vast expanses of fertile land, favorable climatic conditions, and growing adoption of modern agricultural practices have positioned it for significant growth in yam production.

Kogi’s success in yam cultivation can be attributed to several factors, including:

Vast fertile land: Kogi State boasts vast expanses of fertile land, providing ample space for yam cultivation and expansion.
Favorable climatic conditions: The state’s climate, characterized by warm temperatures and well-distributed rainfall, provides an ideal environment for yams to thrive.
Growing adoption of modern techniques: Kogi State has been actively promoting the adoption of modern yam cultivation techniques, such as the use of improved yam varieties, fertilizers, and pest control methods.
Government support: The Kogi State government has implemented various initiatives to support yam cultivation, including providing farmers with access to training, improved yam varieties, and financial assistance.

Kogi State is home to a diverse range of yam varieties, including:

Igbere yam (Dioscorea rotundata): This white yam variety is known for its high yield and adaptability to various soil conditions.
Alamu yam (Dioscorea alata): This water yam variety is popular for its sweet, moist flesh and suitability for processing into flour.
Epe yam (Dioscorea dumetorum): This puna yam variety is valued for its long storage life and resistance to pests and diseases.

Kogi State’s yam cultivation practices are a blend of traditional methods and modern techniques. Farmers often utilize traditional techniques, such as intercropping and mulching, to improve soil fertility and conserve moisture. They also incorporate modern practices, such as the use of improved yam varieties and fertilizers, to enhance yields and quality.

The yam industry in Kogi State is playing an increasingly important role in the state’s economy, providing employment and income for a growing number of farmers. Yam cultivation also contributes to the state’s food security, ensuring a steady supply of this staple food for its residents.

Kogi State’s remarkable growth in yam production has earned it the title of “Nigeria’s Yam Oasis.” With continued dedication to promoting yam cultivation and embracing innovative practices, Kogi is poised to become a major force in Nigeria’s yam industry.

DELTA STATE: A YAM GATEWAY

Delta State, situated in the South-South region of Nigeria, serves as a gateway for yam trade and export. The state’s extensive transportation network, including its network of rivers and roads, facilitates the efficient distribution of yams to local, national, and international markets.

Delta’s success in yam production can be attributed to several factors, including:

Strategic location: Delta State’s strategic location, bordering yam-producing states like Edo and Ondo, provides access to a large pool of yam produce and facilitates trade linkages.
Extensive transportation network: The state’s network of rivers, roads, and railways provides efficient transportation channels for yam distribution to local, national, and international markets.
Favorable climatic conditions: Delta’s climate, characterized by warm temperatures and well-distributed rainfall, provides an ideal environment for yams to thrive.
Active yam trade: Delta State is home to vibrant yam markets, facilitating the exchange of yam produce between farmers, traders, and consumers.

Delta State is home to a diverse range of yam varieties, including:

Ogoja yam (Dioscorea rotundata): This white yam variety is known for its high yield and adaptability to various soil conditions.
Isu yam (Dioscorea alata): This water yam variety is popular for its sweet, moist flesh and suitability for processing into flour.
Oha yam (Dioscorea dumetorum): This puna yam variety is valued for its long storage life and resistance to pests and diseases.

Delta State’s yam cultivation practices are a blend of traditional methods and modern techniques. Farmers often utilize traditional techniques, such as intercropping and mulching, to improve soil fertility and conserve moisture. They also incorporate modern practices, such as the use of improved yam varieties and fertilizers, to enhance yields and quality.

The yam industry in Delta State plays a significant role in the state’s economy, providing employment and income for a substantial portion of the population. Yam cultivation also contributes to the state’s food security, ensuring a steady supply of this staple food for its residents.

ABIA STATE: A YAM MOSAIC

Abia State, situated in the Southeastern region of Nigeria, stands as a land of yam diversity. The state’s rich agricultural heritage, favorable climatic conditions, and deep-rooted yam cultivation tradition have contributed to an impressive array of yam varieties, each with its unique characteristics and culinary applications.

Abia’s success in yam production can be attributed to several factors, including:

Yam diversity: Abia State boasts an exceptional diversity of yam varieties, with over 100 distinct cultivars, each with its unique flavor, texture, and cultural significance.
Traditional knowledge: Generations of yam cultivation in Abia State have resulted in a wealth of traditional knowledge and practices that are passed down through families and communities.
Favorable climatic conditions: Abia’s climate, characterized by warm temperatures and well-distributed rainfall, provides an ideal environment for a wide range of yam varieties to thrive.
Active yam trade: Abia State is home to vibrant yam markets, facilitating the exchange of yam produce and cultural knowledge among local communities.

Abia State’s yam cultivation practices are a blend of traditional methods and modern techniques. Farmers often utilize traditional techniques, such as intercropping and mulching, to improve soil fertility and conserve moisture. They also incorporate modern practices, such as the use of improved yam varieties and fertilizers, to enhance yields and quality for certain varieties.

The yam industry in Abia State plays a significant role in the state’s economy, providing employment and income for a substantial portion of the population. Yam cultivation also contributes to the state’s food security and cultural identity, ensuring a steady supply of this staple food and preserving the rich yam heritage of the region.

Abia State’s remarkable yam diversity and its deep-rooted yam cultivation tradition have earned it the title of “Nigeria’s Yam Mosaic.” The state’s commitment to preserving its yam heritage while embracing modern practices ensures that Abia will continue to be a significant contributor to Nigeria’s yam industry and a guardian of its yam biodiversity.

CONCLUSION

As we conclude our journey through the yam-producing heartland of Nigeria, we are left with a profound appreciation for the significance of yam cultivation in the country’s agricultural landscape, cultural heritage, and economic well-being. Each of the top 10 yam producing states has played a unique role in shaping Nigeria’s yam industry, contributing to its global prominence and showcasing the diversity of yam varieties that thrive across the country.

From the yam king of Benue State to the yam oasis of Kogi State, each region has brought its expertise, traditions, and favorable conditions to the table, creating a tapestry of yam cultivation practices that is as diverse as the yam varieties themselves.

As Nigeria continues to strive for agricultural growth and food security, yam cultivation remains a cornerstone of its efforts. The commitment to innovation, sustainable practices, and cultural preservation among yam farmers and stakeholders across the country ensures that yam will continue to be a staple food, a source of income, and a symbol of Nigeria’s rich agricultural heritage for generations to come.

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Top 10 Highest Yam Producing States in Nigeria (2024)