Abakaliki Rice is a variety of rice cultivated predominantly in Ebonyi State, South Eastern Nigeria.
Named after Abakaliki, the state capital, the term refers to rice grown across the 13 local government areas of the state.
It is notable for its distinct flavour and high dietary fibre content, and is widely used in Nigerian cuisine.
The region’s warm climate supports at least two cultivation cycles annually, enabling faster growth compared to many other regions.
Agricultural Significance
- Accounts for over 50% of agricultural activities in Ebonyi State.
- Estimated annual production: 134,000 metric tonnes.
- Abakaliki Rice Mill:
- 4,500 milling machines
- 50 destoning centres
- 10 polishing machines
- Employs around 1,850 workers (directly and indirectly).
History
- Rice cultivation introduced in 1940 during Nigeria’s colonial era.
- Initiated by the British colonial government to boost food supply during World War II.
- Key early cultivation areas: Abakaliki, Afikpo, Ohaozara (chosen for swampy soils).
- Initial resistance due to:
- Cultural and religious concerns (e.g., fears among Izzi and Ezza farmers that rice might disrupt yam traditions).
- Adoption increased when:
- Settlers introduced improved farming techniques.
- Farmers realized rice was easier to cultivate, matured faster, and was more profitable.
- Expansion:
- 600 acres (1940) → 18,000 acres (1954) → 20,000 acres (by 1959).
- Number of rice mills rose to 95 during this period.
Varieties
- Originates from Asian Oryza sativa and African Oryza glaberrima.
- Common varieties:
- FARO 1, FARO 44, FARO 57, NERICA 19, WAB 189-B-B-8-HB.
- Other local and introduced varieties: 306, Iron, Mars, R8, CP, Mandela, Brown rice, Geisha.
Culinary Uses
- Widely prepared as:
- Jollof rice
- White rice with stew (tomato-based or vegetable sauce)
- Served with fried plantain
- Cooked with beans (white, brown, or honey beans)
- Served alongside beef, chevon, or chicken pepper soup.
- Complements dishes such as ayamase stew and other traditional Nigerian soups.
Economic Impact
- The most significant cash crop in Ebonyi State.
- Nearly every household engages in rice cultivation.
- Average yield: 6.7 metric tonnes per harvest.
- Ebonyi State: Nigeria’s largest rice producer.
- Historic export significance:
- In 1965, exports to Ghana earned an estimated £3 million for the Eastern Region government under Dr. Michael Okpara.
Abakaliki Rice Mill
- Established: 1964
- Location: 1,938.464 m² under the Abakaliki Rice Mill Company Ltd.
- Capacity:
- Processes up to 11,000 metric tonnes/month.
- Individual machines: 140+ bushels in 4 hours.
- Managed by the Rice Mill Owners Association to ensure quality and oversee operations.