The Onion Producers, Processors, and Marketers Association of Nigeria (OPPMAN), led by its national president, Mr. Aliyu Isah, has provided insight into the recent surge in onion prices and the ongoing scarcity of the commodity within Nigeria. According to a report by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), this price hike is attributed to several key factors, which have significantly disrupted the onion market in the country. One of the major reasons highlighted by Mr. Isah is the adverse impact of climate change, which has affected the supply of onions from major producing states, including Kano and Sokoto. Unfavorable weather conditions such as prolonged droughts and flooding have led to a reduction in the yield of onions, making it harder to meet the growing domestic demand.
In addition to weather-related challenges, logistical issues have played a significant role in driving up onion prices. The transportation of onions from rural farms to urban markets has been hindered by poor infrastructure and the rising costs of fuel. These supply chain disruptions have further exacerbated the scarcity, as onions that would typically be available in abundance are now limited in quantity. The effect of these supply constraints is seen in the dramatic rise in the price of onions, with a bag of onions increasing from N70,000-N90,000 ($191-$246) to N250,000-N270,000 ($684-$739) by the end of 2024. In parallel, the price of a medium-sized onion bulb also experienced a sharp increase, soaring from N50 ($0.14) to N500 ($1.37).
Mr. Isah has called for immediate government intervention to address the issue, suggesting that investments in irrigation systems, improved farming techniques, and infrastructure development are crucial to stabilizing the onion market. The sharp rise in onion prices has not only affected consumers but also put a strain on local businesses that rely on onions for food production. As the scarcity continues, the Nigerian government is being urged to find sustainable solutions that can mitigate the impact of climate change and infrastructure challenges on the agricultural sector.
Isah attributed the scarcity and price hike to several key factors, including devastating floods that affected onion farms across multiple states, including Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara, Kano, Kaduna, Katsina, and Adamawa. The release of water from dams in northern states and dam breakages in Borno State further exacerbated the situation, destroying onion farmlands.
Climate change has also played a role, with extended rainfall and high humidity levels leading to outbreaks of Downy Mildew disease, which devastated onion crops at various stages of cultivation. Additionally, the scarcity of improved onion seedlings has hindered production. The disruption of local seed production systems by flooding and climate change, alongside reliance on imported hybrid seeds has further compounded the issue. The importation of adulterated onion seeds has also led to significant losses for farmers.
Lastly, Isah highlighted the lack of storage facilities and technology as a critical factor contributing to the surge in onion prices. The absence of adequate infrastructure for preserving the harvest has significantly impacted the availability and cost of onions in Nigeria.
Source: Nigerian Tribune
