Onion farmers in Nigeria are experiencing a windfall as prices have more than doubled, driven by festive season demand and increased exports to West African neighbours.
An investigation reveals that Nigerian onions are seeing unprecedented demand from Ghana, Ivory Coast, and other neighbouring countries, coinciding with heightened domestic consumption during the Christmas and New Year period. The situation is further complicated by production challenges, as some farmers’ use of low-quality seedlings has resulted in reduced yields.
Market data shows dramatic price increases across the country. At Lagos’ Mile 12 Market, a giant bag of onions now costs ₦270,000, up from ₦130,000 in December 2023—a 108 per cent increase. Similar price spikes have been recorded in Plateau, Anambra, and Delta states, where prices have also more than doubled.
“We’re seeing record-high prices due to the holiday season and international demand,” explains Danladi Haruna, an onion farmer and trader based in Kano State. “While some farmers struggled with fake seedlings, those who used quality seeds are reaping substantial profits.”
The National Onion Producers, Processors and Marketers Association of Nigeria (NOPPMAN) attributes the supply shortage primarily to poor-quality inputs. “Many farmers experienced significantly reduced yields due to substandard seeds during the October dry planting season,” says Amir Idris, NOPPMAN’s national secretary in Kaduna State.
The impact on consumers has been severe. Local markets now sell a bundle of six small onions for ₦1,500, a 200 percent increase from ₦500 in 2023. Industry experts warn that prices may remain high until farmers gain access to better hybrid seeds.
Despite consumer challenges, some farmers are benefiting from the price surge. “While it’s unfortunate that consumers are paying more, farmers who persevered through last year’s dry season are now prospering,” notes Haruna.
Looking ahead, the 2025 dry season planting has begun, but challenges persist. NOPPMAN has proposed collaboration with the National Horticultural Research Institute to train local seed producers in Zaria State, following a successful training program in Sokoto earlier this year.
The situation is further complicated by regional dynamics. Kabiru Farakwai, NOPPMAN’s organizing secretary in Kaduna, points to strong demand from Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire as a significant factor in the price increases. Additionally, severe flooding in Yobe State during 2024 has impacted production levels.
Nigeria currently ranks fourth in West African onion production, behind Egypt, Algeria, and Morocco, and 24th globally. FAOStat data indicates that Nigeria produced 244,051 metric tons of onions in 2023, highlighting the need for improved seedlings to boost productivity.
As onions remain a crucial ingredient in Nigerian cuisine, featuring prominently in staples like stews, jollof rice, and soups, the ongoing price surge continues to strain household budgets across the nation.