The Onion Producers, Processors and Marketers Association of Nigeria, through its national president, Mr. Aliyu Isah, has shed light on the factors contributing to the recent upsurge in onion prices and the scarcity of the produce within the nation, as reported by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN). The price of a bag of onions has escalated dramatically, moving from N70,000-N90,000 ($191-$246) to N250,000-N270,000 ($684-$739) in the latter part of 2024. Similarly, the cost of a medium-sized onion bulb increased from N50 ($0.14) to N500 ($1.37).
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