In a significant boost for the global organic food market, WACOT Limited has once again secured its prestigious certification from ECOCERT to export organic sesame.

This renewal emphasises WACOT’s adherence to the highest international standards, and positions Jigawa State, as a pivotal organic sesame source for the US and worldwide markets.

ECOCERT, the France-based global leader in organic certification, reaffirmed its confidence in WACOT by renewing the two critical certifications on January 26, 2024.

These certifications validate WACOT’s exceptional processes for preparing, storing, and exporting organic sesame from its facilities in Ikeja, Lagos, and Gumel, Jigawa State. Such endorsements testify to WACOT’s commitment to sustainable agriculture and quality assurance in its extensive operations across Nigeria.

The National Organic Programme (NOP), tasked with the responsibility to create guidelines and protocols governing the production, processing, labeling, and oversight of all USDA-certified organic goods, has affirmed WACOT’s compliance with the rigorous organic standards set forth by the United States Department of Agriculture.

Group Managing Director of TGI Group, WACOT’s parent company, Rahul Savara, expressed pride in the achievement, stating, “This certification renewal from ECOCERT is not just a validation of our dedication to sustainable and organic agriculture but also a milestone that enhances our capability to meet the growing global demand for organic sesame.”

The National President, Sesame Seed Association of Nigeria, who is also the President, Federation of Agricultural Commodities Association of Nigeria (FACAN), Alhaji Sheriff Balogun, commended WACOT’s renewal of its ECOCERT certification to export organic sesame. He said, “We are excited that a company like WACOT is putting Nigeria’s sesame on the map.

Celebrating WACOT’s ECOCERT certification is not just about recognizing their commitment to organic sesame exports; it’s a testament to Nigeria’s prominence in the global commodities market. This milestone is a source of encouragement for other players in the Nigerian market to continue to seek ways and seize the opportunity to expand the footprint of Nigeria’s high-quality commodities across the world.”

Head of Sustainability at TGI Group, YosolaOnanuga highlighted the renewal’s broader impact, noting that: “It is a testament to our collective effort in promoting sustainable farming practices and enhancing the livelihoods of over 10,000 farmers through our initiatives in Jigawa State.”

As one of the world’s leading sesame producers, Nigeria see approximately 80 per cent of its production exported yearly, with WACOT at the forefront of this highly demanded crop cultivation.