Turmeric is a flowering plant, Curcuma longa, of the ginger family, Zingiberaceae, the rhizomes of which are used in cooking. The plant is a perennial, rhizomatous, herbaceous plant native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia that requires temperatures between 20 and 30 °C and high annual rainfall to thrive. 

Turmeric is a popular spice that has been used for thousands of years in traditional medicine and cooking. It is a member of the ginger family and is known for its bright yellow color and strong, earthy flavor. In recent years, turmeric has gained popularity as a health supplement and ingredient in beauty products, which has led to an increase in demand for this spice.

Nigeria is one of the largest producers of turmeric in Africa, and it has the potential to become a major player in the global turmeric industry. In Nigeria, Turmeric is cultivated in nineteen (19) states and cultivation can be done from May-June and July August depending on the variety and location. Turmeric matures between seven to nine (7-9) months depending on the variety. Turmeric can be processed into a wide variety of products.

If you're interested in starting a turmeric supply business in Nigeria, this article will guide you through the steps to get started.

Step 1: Research the Market

Before starting a turmeric supply business, it is important to research the market and understand the demand for turmeric in Nigeria. This includes identifying the key industries that use turmeric and the specific types of turmeric they require. 

It is also important to research the competition in the market and understand their pricing and quality standards. This will help you to determine your own pricing and quality standards, as well as identify any areas where you can differentiate your business.

Step 2: Obtain Required Licenses and Permits

In Nigeria, there are various licenses and permits that are required to operate a turmeric supply business. These may include business registration, tax identification number, and any required permits from the Ministry of Agriculture or other relevant government agencies. It is important to obtain all the necessary licenses and permits before starting your business to avoid any legal issues in the future.

Step 3: Establish Relationships with Farmers

In order to supply turmeric, it is important to establish relationships with turmeric farmers. This can be done by attending local farmer associations and cooperative meetings, as well as visiting turmeric farms in the area. It is important to establish trust with the farmers and develop a good working relationship, as this will ensure a steady supply of high-quality turmeric.

Step 4: Ensure Quality Control

Quality control is an important aspect of any turmeric supply business. It is important to ensure that the turmeric meets the required standards and is free from any contaminants or impurities. This can be done by implementing a quality control process, which may include regular inspections, testing, and certification.

Step 5: Develop Distribution Channels

Once you have established relationships with farmers and ensured quality control, the next step is to develop distribution channels. This may involve working with transport companies or developing your own transportation system. It is important to ensure that the turmeric is transported in a timely and efficient manner to avoid any delays or spoilage.

Step 6: Market Your Business

Marketing your turmeric supply business is essential to attracting customers and growing your business. This can be done through various channels, such as attending trade shows, advertising in local newspapers, and creating a website or social media presence. It is important to highlight your unique selling points, such as your quality standards or competitive pricing, to differentiate your business from competitors.

Turmeric was traditionally used for disorders of the skin, upper respiratory tract, joints, and digestive system. Today, turmeric is promoted as a dietary supplement for a variety of conditions, including arthritis, digestive disorders, respiratory infections, allergies, liver disease, depression, and many others.

Turmeric is an important industrial raw material and there is large, growing and sustainable market for the product. Supplying turmeric to local industries in Nigeria is a very lucrative business that would generate a lot of revenue for the investors.