The National Onion Producers, Processors, and Marketers Association of Nigeria (NOPPMAN) has reported severe losses in the onion industry, with over 50% of produce lost along the onion value chain. Speaking in Sokoto, Aliyu Maitasamu, who leads both NOPPMAN and the Regional Observatory of Onion Sector in West and Central Africa (ROO/WCA), highlighted multiple obstacles faced by onion farmers, including soaring costs, post-harvest wastage, inflation, and climate disruptions.
Maitasamu noted that the cost of onion seedlings has sharply increased, making it harder for farmers to afford the inputs needed to sustain production. “With seedling prices at record highs, farmers are finding it challenging to maintain their output levels,” he explained, adding that this decline threatens to push onion prices up while jeopardizing food security in Nigeria. Data shows that the onion industry supports thousands of smallholder farmers who are now struggling to survive under these conditions.
Post-harvest losses account for over half of the industry’s output due to inadequate storage and preservation technologies, along with limited transportation options. Maitasamu explained that these challenges result in tons of onions wasted after harvest, which is not only devastating for farmers’ incomes but also a setback for Nigeria’s agricultural sector. “This trend damages farmers’ livelihoods and negatively impacts our economy,” he said, emphasizing the need for improved storage solutions.
Inflation has further compounded the problem as prices for essential farming inputs, such as fertilizers, pesticides, fuel, and labor, have increased. Many farmers, he added, are now unable to cover production costs, let alone make a profit. Maitasamu warned that these financial pressures discourage investment and the adoption of new technologies, weakening the industry’s overall resilience.
Calling for urgent intervention, Maitasamu urged government entities, financial institutions, development partners, and private investors to support Nigeria’s onion sector. Declaring a state of emergency, he emphasized that immediate action is necessary to stabilize the industry, protect farmers’ livelihoods, and ensure Nigeria’s continued presence in both national and global markets.
