Nigeria produces 2.1 million metric tonnes of onions annually — Marketers
Nigeria is the second-largest onion producer in Africa, with an annual output of 2.1 million metric tonnes valued at approximately N1.17 trillion.
The National Onion Producers, Processors and Marketers Association of Nigeria has reported that the country produces 2.1 million metric tonnes of onions each year, making it the second-largest producer in Africa after Egypt. This production not only contributes significantly to the agricultural economy but is also crucial for rural livelihoods. The annual value of the onion production is estimated at around N1.17 trillion, highlighting its economic importance.
Alhaji Aliyu Isah, the national president of the association, shared that Nigerian onions are exported to various markets, including West and Central Africa and some European countries. The growth and stability of onion production in Nigeria are attributed to various government interventions, which have enhanced the availability of improved seeds, fertilizers, and agrochemicals. This support has been vital for keeping production stable and ensuring fair market prices, benefiting farmers and the agricultural sector at large.
Isah commended the Nigerian government for its proactive measures in supporting farmers and boosting onion production. By focusing on agriculture and exporting surplus produce, Nigeria can strengthen its role in the regional market, thereby enhancing food security and creating economic opportunities in rural areas. The government's commitment to agricultural development through interventions is essential for sustaining and increasing onion production in the coming years.