Nigeria is the world's largest producer of yam, contributing over 65% of global output, particularly within West Africa’s “yam belt.” Yam (Dioscorea spp.) is a staple food crop central to the country’s food security, economy, and cultural identity.

✅ Key Production Areas

Major yam-producing states include:

Benue (often referred to as the "food basket of the nation")

Nasarawa

Taraba

Kogi

Plateau

Enugu

Oyo

Delta

These regions have favorable climatic conditions—moderate rainfall, loamy soils, and a long growing season.

🌱 Cultivation & Harvesting

Planting Season: March to May

Harvesting: Begins from August, peaks around October to December

Yams are usually grown using traditional methods, involving mounding and staking, though modern mechanization is slowly increasing.
💰 Economic Importance

Nigeria produces over 45 million metric tonnes of yam annually, mostly for local consumption.

Yam contributes significantly to rural livelihoods, with millions engaged in farming, processing, and marketing.

There's growing export potential, especially to countries with large West African diasporas (e.g., UK, USA, Canada).

🔍 Challenges

Post-harvest losses (due to rot, pests, poor storage)

Inadequate access to improved varieties and inputs

Poor infrastructure (roads, electricity)

Limited mechanization and credit support

🚀 Recent Developments

Initiatives by the Nigerian government and NGOs to improve:

Seed quality and yam minisett technology

Storage facilities (e.g., yam barns and cold chains)

Export logistics, especially through the Nigeria Yam Export Programme.

📌 Summary
Yam production in Nigeria is a critical part of the agricultural economy, with vast potential for growth if issues like poor storage and market access are addressed. It plays an essential role in food security, rural development, and export diversification.