Tigernut Farming in Nigeria: Complete Beginner Guide to High Profit

by | Apr 26, 2026 | Production, Crop Production, General Crops | 0 comments

Tigernut

Introduction

Tigernut farming in Nigeria is becoming more popular every year. Many farmers are now turning to tigernuts because they are easy to grow, need less care, and can bring good profit. If you are looking for a simple farming business to start, tigernut farming is a smart option.

What Is Tigernut?

Tigernut (locally called “Aya” in Hausa, “Ofio” in Yoruba, and “Aki Hausa” in Igbo) is not actually a nut. It is a small root crop that grows under the soil, just like groundnut. It is sweet, healthy, and used to make drinks like tiger nut milk (Kunun Aya).

Why Tigernut Farming Is Profitable in Nigeria

Tigernut farming in Nigeria has many advantages:

  • High demand in local markets
  • Used for drinks, snacks, and health products
  • Can be exported for good money
  • Requires low capital to start
  • Grows well in many parts of Nigeria

Because of these benefits, many farmers are now investing in tigernut production.

Best Location for Tigernut Farming in Nigeria

Tigernut grows well in:

  • Northern Nigeria (Kano, Jigawa, Kaduna)
  • Middle Belt areas
  • Any place with sandy or loamy soil

The crop likes warm weather and does not need too much rain.

Tigernut

Image Source: Getty Images

How to Start Tigernut Farming (Step-by-Step)

1. Get Good Land

Choose land with:

  • Sandy-loamy soil
  • Good drainage
  • Enough sunlight

Avoid waterlogged areas.

2. Prepare the Land

  • Clear the land
  • Plough or till the soil
  • Make ridges or beds (optional but helpful)

3. Get Quality Seeds

Buy good tigernut seeds from:

  • Trusted farmers
  • Agricultural markets

Healthy seeds will give you better yield.

4. Planting

  • Plant during rainy season (April – June)
  • Space seeds properly (about 15–20 cm apart)
  • Plant 2–3 cm deep

5. Weed Control

  • Weed regularly, especially in the first 4–6 weeks
  • You can use manual weeding or herbicides

6. Fertilizer Application

  • Use organic manure (very effective)
  • You can also apply NPK fertilizer if needed

7. Irrigation (If Needed)

If rainfall is low, you can water the farm to support growth.

Harvesting Tigernut

  • Tigernut is ready in 3 to 4 months
  • Leaves will turn yellow when ready
  • Uproot the plant and collect the nuts from the soil

After harvesting:

  • Wash the tigernuts
  • Dry them under the sun
  • Store in a cool, dry place
Tigernut

Image Source: Getty Images

Cost and Profit of Tigernut Farming in Nigeria

Starting small:

  • Land preparation
  • Seeds
  • Labour

Tigernut farming is low-cost compared to many crops.

Profit depends on:

  • Farm size
  • Yield
  • Market price

Many farmers make good profit because demand is always high.

Challenges of Tigernut Farming

Like every business, there are some challenges:

  • Weeds
  • Poor quality seeds
  • Low rainfall
  • Market price changes

But with good planning, these can be managed.

Marketing Your Tigernut

You can sell to:

  • Local markets
  • Drink producers (Kunun Aya makers)
  • Export buyers
  • Supermarkets

You can also process it into:

  • Tigernut milk
  • Flour
  • Snacks

This can increase your profit.

Conclusion

Tigernut farming in Nigeria is a simple and profitable agribusiness. It does not require too much capital, and it is suitable for both beginners and experienced farmers.

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