Farmers in Sokoto, Kebbi, and Zamfara States in Nigeria are calling for federal and state governments to create dedicated emergency funds to absorb excess fruit and vegetable harvests and reduce post-harvest losses. Stakeholders say that mopping up surplus volumes after bumper harvests would help stabilise prices and support growers' ability to reinvest.
Alhaji Aliyu Maitasamu, Chairman of the Onion Producers and Marketers Association of Nigeria, said, "Buying of excess produce from farmers after a bumper harvest will reduce avoidable lowering of prices in the market, thereby encouraging farmers to remain in business." He added that stored commodities could later be released into the market when needed to balance supply and pricing.
Maitasamu also noted farmer concerns about low market prices this season. "At present, farmers are afraid to reinvestment because prices are too low, many farmers cannot break even, a situation that is not only worrisome, but dangerous to the nation," he said. He welcomed current support measures, including subsidised seedlings, fertilisers, chemicals, and tools, and urged continued access to subsidised fertiliser and farm inputs.
He highlighted that 250 tractors provided by the Sokoto State government are expected to support dry and rainy season cultivation of vegetables such as garlic, onion, and chilli pepper.
Other grower groups echoed the call for structural support. Alhaji Kabiru Hassan-Dange, Chairman of the Cotton Farmers Association in Sokoto State, urged the government to prioritise reactivating processing industries that can purchase produce directly from farmers. He also encouraged policies that limit imported produce to avoid pressure on domestic markets.
In Gusau, Sarkin Norman Mayanchi, Alhaji Kabir Ibrahim, said farmers are facing financial pressure despite lower food prices, due to high labour and equipment costs. He advised the government to reintroduce the Commodity Marketing Board to stabilise the sector and maintain grower participation.
Dr Mustapha Kanoma of the Federal University Gusau said the presidential directive on food importation has contributed to lower prices. He emphasised the need for a long-term domestic production policy, stating that "no country can improve citizens' wellbeing without homegrown economic policy on food security."
Traders in Birnin Kebbi said the arrival of new-season produce has softened demand pressures, although some noted that overall prices remain high relative to previous years. Economists in the region say price stability will depend on improved security in farming areas, improved transport conditions, stronger monitoring, and greater access to credit for small-scale growers.
Source: Aljazirah Nigeria
