Untapped potential of Nigeria’s indigenous rice varieties

BY OLUWADARE ALEGBELEYE

Nigerian local rice varieties, typically unpolished and aromatic, hold immense potential to enhance food security, promote sustainability, and support positive dietary goals. Ofada rice, Ilesha rice, Abakaliki, Ekpoma, and Igbimo rice brands are more than just culinary staples—they are a potential sustainable alternative to imported rice.

The global potential of indigenous grains

The rising global demand for indigenous grains such as quinoa, fonio, and teff suggests that Nigerian local rice varieties could also attract international interest. The time has come for us to unlock the market potential of Nigerian local rice varieties and position them to compete on a global scale.

Sustainability and the case for local grains

Unlike mass-produced, highly polished rice varieties, local rice varieties retain their bran and germ layers, and they thus qualify as nutrient-dense whole grains. Amongst other potential sustainability benefits, increased demand for Ofada rice can maintain wealth within rural communities rather than divert it to international supply chains. Increased consumption may, therefore, significantly benefit local farmers.

Health benefits: a nutritional powerhouse

Beyond their sustainability advantages, most local rice varieties are comparatively high in fiber, which aids digestion and helps reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes. Their lower glycemic index supports better blood sugar regulation, making them a healthier choice for diabetics. The reddish-brown bran layer is rich in antioxidants, including phenolic compounds, which help combat oxidative stress. Additionally, local rice varieties provide essential minerals such as magnesium, phosphorus, and iron, which are vital for overall well-being. At a time when diet-related illnesses, including diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, are on the rise—particularly in Africa—local rice may be a practical, nutritious, and culturally relevant alternative.

A battle against import dependence

Nigeria, Africa’s largest rice consumer, has long relied on imports to meet domestic demand. Despite being a major rice-producing nation, foreign varieties dominate the market, often overshadowing locally grown options. This dependence has significant implications for food security and economic development, as it leaves the rice sector vulnerable to global price fluctuations and external market shocks.

Nigerian local rice varieties can contribute to reducing this reliance, supporting smallholder farmers, and strengthening Nigeria’s drive for agricultural self-sufficiency. Despite its potential, however, the cultivation of many of these local rice varieties on a sustainably large scale is curtailed by numerous challenges.

Poor processing standards 

Traditional milling methods often leave debris, including stones, in local rice, which remains a significant deterrent for consumers. One notable example is Ilesha rice, which earned the nickname “Oh God rice”, because unsuspecting consumers would exclaim in frustration upon biting into hidden stones. Inconsistencies in grain size, color, and texture also undermine consumer confidence.

Smallholder farmers, who form the backbone of local rice production, grapple with challenges such as inadequate infrastructure and limited investment. Many lack access to modern milling equipment and proper storage facilities, contributing to reduced yields and post-harvest losses. These structural gaps not only affect supply but also hinder the ability of local rice varieties to compete with imported, highly polished rice varieties.

Potential health risks due to incidence of pollutants such as heavy metals.

Studies have reported the presence of pollutants such as lead, cadmium, nickel, and arsenic in locally grown rice varieties. Chronic exposure to heavy metals through rice consumption can pose serious health risks, as some heavy metals have been linked to neurological disorders and kidney dysfunction, while some are known carcinogens. Potential sources of contamination include the use of pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers containing heavy metals, as well as activities such as mining and industrial operations that pollute agricultural soils and are then taken up by crops.

Addressing these challenges requires targeted investment in infrastructure, particularly in upgrading milling and destoning technologies to improve quality control and standardization. Modernized packaging solutions that enhance preservation, market appeal, and consumer confidence in locally produced rice are also required. Additionally, Ofada rice struggles with a weak brand presence both locally and internationally.

Strengthening its market identity through strategic storytelling, geographical indication labeling, and targeted marketing campaigns that position it as a premium, comparatively healthier alternative can boost its appeal. Although some studies have reported high levels of heavy metal contamination in local rice varieties, the extent of contamination and associated risks remain unclear and require more rigorous assessment.

To minimize or manage these risks, regulatory authorities should strengthen monitoring efforts, enforce stricter safety standards, implement periodic testing of soil and water sources, promote safer agricultural practices, and establish clear guidelines for heavy metal limits in rice production and distribution.

Oluwadara Alegbeleye is a microbiologist and science communicator. She holds a Ph.D. in Food Science from the University of Campinas, São Paulo. Her research focuses on food safety, microbial risk assessment, and sustainable food systems. Her work has been featured in numerous newspapers, and she contributes to global discussions on agriculture, climate resilience, and food security.