Hibiscus farming is experiencing a rapid surge in Nigeria as the price of the flower has soared by over 70 percent in the last six months.
According to businessday.ng, this price increase has prompted farmers to set their sights on potential earnings of N48 billion from exports in 2023.
The Association of Hibiscus Flower Exporters of Nigeria reports that the country has already exported 1,983 containers, equivalent to 23,796 metric tons of hibiscus. With the current market price at N1.7 million per ton, Nigerian hibiscus farmers are poised to earn N48 billion in 2023.
The rising prices have led many farmers to shift their focus from other crops to hibiscus cultivation, while existing growers are expanding their production areas. The increase in prices is largely attributed to the removal of Mexico’s export ban on Nigerian hibiscus, which had been in place but was lifted in April 2021.
Mexico is a significant importer of Nigerian hibiscus, accounting for about 85 percent of the country’s total hibiscus exports. This market reopening has revitalized Nigeria’s hibiscus industry.
Farmers like Musa Mohammed in Jigawa State have witnessed the doubling of hibiscus prices and are now prioritizing its cultivation. As demand surges, some farmers are even paying others to grow hibiscus for them to meet customers’ increasing orders.
Hibiscus cultivation in Nigeria has experienced a revival, with farmers who were previously affected by the Mexican export ban returning to the industry and new entrants attracted by the attractive prices.
Hibiscus is a versatile crop used to make the popular zobo drink and various by-products, including jellies, jams, traditional medicines, teas, syrups, and refreshing drinks.
READ: News: Mexico’s Love for Nigerian Hibiscus Flower: A Culinary Exchange and Health Boost
The flower grows throughout the year but sees peak production during the dry season from November to April. Key hibiscus-producing states in Nigeria include Jigawa, Katsina, Bauchi, Kano, Maiduguri, Kebbi, and Sokoto, with Jigawa being the largest producing area.
In Mexico, hibiscus is used to make the famous ‘Agua de Jamaica,’ a drink made from steeped hibiscus flowers, diluted with water, and sweetened with sugar.
Tunji Lawal, president of the Association of Hibiscus Flower Exporters of Nigeria, highlights that Nigeria is currently the only African country with access to the Mexican market, and despite past challenges, the industry is gradually making a comeback.
The hibiscus planting season in Nigeria aligns with the regular rainy season, with harvests commencing in October and the crop remaining available in storage until August to September. As hibiscus farming gains momentum, Nigerian farmers are set to reap significant rewards from this burgeoning industry.
