In recent weeks, the soaring cost of tomatoes has become a pressing concern for many households across Edo State. Market prices have shot up dramatically, straining the budgets of everyday consumers and making this essential ingredient increasingly out of reach for many families. With tomatoes being a staple in countless Nigerian dishes, this price hike has had a ripple effect, driving up the cost of meals and impacting the overall cost of living.
Data from the National Bureau of Statistics reveals that tomato prices have surged by over 50% in the past month alone, with the average price per basket rising from N6,000 to as much as N10,000 in some markets. This sharp increase has been particularly hard on low-income families, who are now forced to make difficult choices between purchasing tomatoes and other essential items.
Recognizing the urgent need to address this issue, the federal government has stepped in with a targeted initiative aimed at boosting local tomato production and stabilizing prices. Through the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, the government has empowered 500 smallholder farmers in Edo State with high-quality tomato seeds, specifically chosen for their suitability to the region’s climate.
Samuel Owoicho, the state director of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, led the distribution of the seeds to members of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN). Speaking at the event, Owoicho highlighted the critical role that increased local production could play in alleviating the current cost pressures on tomatoes.
“The rising cost of tomatoes has placed a significant burden on our people,” Owoicho stated. “This initiative is about more than just providing seeds; it’s about empowering our farmers to meet the growing demand for tomatoes, reduce market prices, and improve food security across the state.”
The impact of this initiative is expected to be far-reaching. With the support of the government, these 500 farmers have also received training on best practices for tomato cultivation. This training will enable them to maximize their yields and produce high-quality tomatoes that can compete with those currently imported into the country.
Owoicho also emphasized that the seeds being distributed are not ordinary—they are high-quality, pest-resistant varieties developed in partnership with research institutions and seed companies. These seeds are designed to thrive in Edo’s climate, ensuring that farmers can produce tomatoes that are both abundant and resilient.
For many of the farmers, this initiative represents a lifeline. With the high cost of agricultural inputs like fertilizers and pesticides, many smallholder farmers have struggled to keep up with production costs. The federal government’s provision of these inputs at subsidized rates will ease this burden, allowing farmers to focus on what they do best—growing the food that feeds their communities.
Bako Dogwo, the state chairman of AFAN, praised the government’s efforts, noting that the seeds would play a crucial role in boosting tomato cultivation not just in Edo, but across Nigeria. He urged farmers to make the most of this opportunity, emphasizing that increased local production could help stabilize prices and reduce the country’s reliance on imported tomatoes.
“The high cost of tomatoes has been a major concern for many households,” Dogwo said. “With this intervention, we can bring down prices and make tomatoes more affordable for everyone in Edo State.”
As these 500 farmers prepare to plant their new seeds, there is hope that this initiative will lead to a bountiful harvest that will benefit not only the farmers themselves but also the millions of consumers who rely on tomatoes every day. With the government’s support, Edo State is on the path to becoming self-sufficient in tomato production, ensuring that this essential crop remains accessible and affordable for all.
