WACOT, BOA support 10,000 Jigawa farmers with sesame outgrower programme

WACOT Limited, a member of TGI Group, has launched its 2026 Sesame Outgrower Programme in Jigawa State, targeting more than 10,000 smallholder farmers with access to financing, quality farm inputs, extension services and improved agricultural practices.

The programme is being implemented in partnership with the Bank of Agriculture (BOA) under the Renewed Hope Smallholder Support and Value Chain Programme.

The initiative commenced with the distribution of agricultural inputs to farmers in Medu village, Gagarawa Local Government Area of the state.

Since its establishment in 2018, the WACOT Sesame Outgrower Programme has expanded from a pilot scheme into a major contract farming initiative, supporting more than 10,000 farmers across eight local government areas in Jigawa State.

WACOT said it had disbursed more than N1 billion in input credit over the past seven years, providing farmers with certified seeds, fertilisers and crop protection products, as well as technical support through its Farmers Academy and extension services.

The programme also promotes the participation of women and young people while encouraging the adoption of modern and climate-smart farming practices.

Under the partnership with BOA, participating farmers will receive input loans, which will be repaid with farm produce at the end of the farming season.

Beyond financing, the programme provides extension support aimed at improving farmers’ yields, product quality and the sustainability of their operations.

The partnership also covers other agricultural value chains, including rice production in Kebbi State and maize and soybean production in Katsina State.

Speaking at the launch, Managing Director of WACOT Limited, Naveen Chaurasia, said the company remained committed to building a sustainable agricultural ecosystem that benefits farmers while meeting the quality requirements of global markets.

Chaurasia said: “At WACOT Limited, part of the TGI Group, we are guided by two clear priorities. First, we are committed to maintaining the international quality standards our customers expect, ensuring nothing compromises the quality of our sesame.

“Second, as both a buyer and participant across the value chain, we recognise that improving farmers’ livelihoods strengthens the entire ecosystem. When farmers succeed, everyone benefits, and we are proud to continue investing in that shared success.”