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The Chief Executive, Agricultural
and Rural Management Training Institute (ARMTI), Dr. Olufemi Oladunni has urged
farmers to explore the $13.08 billion global basmati rice market to save the country
foreign from importation.
Basmati rice is a good source of
energy due to its high carbohydrate content and provides essential nutrients
like vitamins and minerals. Additionally, its high fiber content aids in
digestion, and its low cholesterol and sodium levels contribute to heart
health.
Currently, the top producers of
basmati rice in the World are India, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Iran, United
States, Thailand, Kenya, Iraq, and Thailand. Basmati rice is primarily grown in
the Indian subcontinent, with India and Pakistan being the largest producers by
far.
He noted: “Most basmati rice is
grown in Pakistan and India and is prized for its delicate flavor, long grains,
and unique aroma. Nonetheless, Nigeria and other areas with appropriate
climates and farming methods can also support the cultivation of Basmati rice.
Large areas of land in Nigeria are appropriate for growing rice, and because of
its superior quality and high market demand, Basmati rice production in Nigeria
can present special potential. This is a comprehensive summary of the agronomic
techniques used in Nigerian Basmati rice cultivation.”
Oladunni highlighted the
potential for Nigeria to enhance its self-sufficiency in rice production,
suggesting a particular interest in expanding into Basmati rice cultivation.
According to him, the pursuit of
greater self-sufficiency in rice production, including the expansion into
Basmati rice cultivation, could contribute to Nigeria's food security goals and
reduce its dependence on rice imports.
Expanding into Basmati rice
cultivation, he continued, would require investment in infrastructure,
research, and technology to adapt to the specific requirements of the variety..
Oladunni said Nigeria has the
capacity to pursue greater self-sufficiency
in rice production to expand new
areas such as Basmati rice for increased
food resiliency.
He said: “Basmati rice requires
specific environmental conditions for optimal growth. Well-drained loamy soils
that retain moisture well and have access to irrigation water, either through
natural sources like rivers or artificial irrigation systems. It is a
sunlight-loving crop. Successful cultivation of Basmati rice in Nigeria
requires careful attention to agronomic practices including site selection,
land preparation, variety selection, water and nutrient management, weed and
pest control, harvesting, post-harvest management, and market access. By
implementing these practices effectively, Nigerian farmers can capitalize on
the growing demand for Basmati rice and potentially enhance their incomes and
livelihoods.”
According to him, it is important
for them to invest in agricultural research, to increase competitiveness and
productivity of their domestic farmers in Basmati rice so that their domestic
production situation is healthier and better. He highlighted the importance of
investments in irrigation, research and extension, postharvest facilities and
fertilisers to complement the adoption of good seeds. Meanwhile, India's basmati
rice exports are expected to decrease in this year due to increased competition
from Pakistan, which is offering the grain at more competitive prices. Last
year, reports said India’s basmati rice exports reached 4.9 million metric
tonnes, just shy of the record high in 2020, leading to record revenue of $5.4
billion. However, Pakistan's increased production and lower prices are impacting
India's export prospects.
India and Pakistan are the
leading exporters of the premium long-grain variety of rice, famous for its
aroma, to countries such as Iran, Iraq, Yemen, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates,
and the United States.
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