30% of Nigeria's agricultural exports rejected abroad, sesame seed most affected
Nigeria's agricultural exports face a 30% rejection rate internationally, with sesame seed recording the highest refusal rate, according to Dr. Ofon Udofia, Executive Secretary of the Institute of Export Operations and Management Nigeria Limited. The issue stems from compliance failures including improper pesticide levels, insufficient moisture testing, and weak record-keeping. Sesame seed is particularly affected, highlighting urgent need for improved post-harvest practices. Post-harvest losses in 2025 reached N3.5 trillion to N5 trillion, contributing to food shortages affecting 34.7 million Nigerians during the June-August 2026 lean season. Coordinated interventions are critical to reduce rejections and prevent worsening food insecurity.