Abuja, Nigeria – Nigeria produces an estimated 2.1 million metric tonnes of onions annually, making it the second-largest onion producer in Africa after Egypt. The annual production is valued at approximately N1.17 trillion, according to the National Onion Producers, Processors and Marketers Association of Nigeria (NOPPMAN).
Okay News reports that the disclosure was made by Alhaji Aliyu Isah, national president of NOPPMAN, in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria. He noted that Nigerian onions are exported across West and Central Africa, as well as to select European markets, highlighting the crop’s importance to both the agricultural economy and rural livelihoods.
Isah said government support has helped stabilise production and market prices, including the provision of improved seeds, fertilisers, and agrochemicals. Partnerships with ministries and agencies have also enhanced farmer training, access to modern agricultural practices, and strategies to reduce non-tariff barriers along regional trade corridors.
The association is collaborating with the Nigerian Export Promotion Council and customs authorities to streamline logistics, reduce export costs, and facilitate cross-border movement of onions and processed onion products. Isah emphasised the need to expand onion processing facilities to increase value addition and strengthen the sector’s contribution to national revenue.
Isah also highlighted the association’s focus on building a strong, integrated, and efficient onion value chain. Youth participation is being encouraged to drive innovation, improve productivity, and create economic opportunities in agriculture. He described onion farming as a viable career path, sharing his own transition into the sector after graduation and participation in government agricultural programmes.
The association’s initiatives for 2026 include scaling production capacity, enhancing processing capabilities, improving farmer welfare, and fostering international trade. Isah expressed optimism that, with continued support and strategic partnerships, Nigeria could eventually lead Africa in onion production.
