In a recent stakeholders' meeting held in Birnin Kebbi, Nigeria, representatives from the Nigeria Customs Service and the Kebbi State Government discussed the challenges faced by the onion value chain in the country. They argued that the current practice of border closures is detrimental to agricultural exports, limiting revenue generation and hindering integration within the region's trade. This meeting highlighted the need for a structured trade framework that could support rather than restrict the onion industry.

Isa Aliyu, President of the National Onion Producers, Processors and Marketers Association of Nigeria, pointed out the historical significance of the Sanya corridor trade route, which has operated on the basis of supply needs rather than through formalized policies. This informality has allowed the onion trade to flourish, particularly in Kebbi State, which is recognized as a key producer in Nigeria. As Aleiro Local Government Area remains a hub for onion production, the stakeholders' plea underscores the potential of the region to contribute more significantly to both local and regional economies.

The implications of this push for regulatory change extend beyond improving onion exports. If successfully implemented, these new frameworks could facilitate better agricultural practices, enhance the livelihoods of producers, and ensure a more sustainable and profitable onion market for the future. By fostering a regulatory environment that respects the dynamics of natural supply routes, Nigeria can strengthen its position in the agricultural sector and improve trade relations within West Africa, potentially transforming agricultural exports as a whole.