The cultivation of Bitter Melon, locally known as Guna, is becoming a source of hope and prosperity for farmers in Yobe State. What was once a little-known plant is now changing lives in rural communities.
In Nangere Local Government Area and other catchments under the Tikau Emirate, farmers are seeing great results. A single bag of Guna seeds sells for as much as ₦50,000.00. The oil from the seeds is cholesterol-free and highly demanded by top companies.
Guna grows after staple food crops are harvested. This means there is no competition for farmland while giving farmers extra income.
On September 3, 2025, Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) and the Yobe State Guna Association (YOSGATA) launched a new initiative. The program was held with the Emir of Tikau present.
At the event, free Guna seeds, fertilizers, and knapsack sprayers were distributed to community leaders.
His Royal Highness spoke about the devastating floods of 2024. “When the floods swept through our communities last year, I encouraged our farmers to embrace Guna cultivation. Today, we are seeing that decision bring hope, income, and stability,” he said.
The Executive Secretary of Yobe SEMA promised to do more for Guna farmers. “We are not only giving inputs. We are working to connect farmers with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Food Programme (WFP).
“We are also pushing for a processing factory to turn seeds into oil. This will create jobs for our youth and increase revenue for our state,” he stated.
The initiative will also open doors to international markets. It aims to improve food security and boost the state’s economy.
Bitter Melon is now seen as a valuable resource that can rebuild livelihoods and empower communities.
“Bitter Melon is no longer a hidden treasure. It is Yobe’s new green gold. May Allah bless Yobe State and the resilience of its people,” the SEMA Executive Secretary added.