The horticulture industry in Nigeria, valued at approximately USD 248 million, is experiencing a downturn in its international market share. This decline is attributed mainly to rising production costs and logistical challenges.
Adetiloye Continental, Chief Executive of the Produce Export Development Alliance (PEDA), highlighted the potential for Nigerians to earn foreign exchange through the export market for fresh vegetables. He stated, "A lot of Nigerians have been involved in it. The motivation is the fact that they can earn foreign exchange. The second reason is that exportation helps us as a country to improve our domestic standards. The more we embrace export standards the more our domestic standards improve. The promise of having access to a premium market is also an attraction."
In 2023, Nigeria's horticulture exports, including vegetables, reached a value of USD 248 million. However, the export volume has been decreasing. Continental noted, "In recent times, the number has dropped as a result of the high cost of freight and all that. The major challenge is the cost of freight has become dramatic. The cost of production has increased. Standards are also a challenge. For those who are exporting fresh perishables, the cold chain is almost nonexistent. The few cold chain infrastructures are very expensive to rent."
Nigeria's rich agricultural resources present an opportunity to expand exports of high-quality fresh vegetables to meet global demand. Continental pointed out that while many exporters focus on Europe and Asia, the Middle East offers a growing market with lower entry barriers.
The Nation reports that exports of fresh vegetables, a key component of Nigeria's horticulture sector, have increased recently. The United Kingdom, with a vegetable market valued at USD 23.12 billion, is a notable destination. Nigeria, alongside other Sub-Saharan African countries, is exploring exports of vegetables like green beans, peas, and avocados.
Ofon Udofia, Executive Director of the Nigerian Institute of Export Operations and Management (IEOM), emphasized Nigeria's potential in fruit and vegetable exports. However, challenges such as inadequate cold chain infrastructure and poor safety standards persist.
Dr. Abayomi Olaniyan, former Executive Director of the National Institute for Horticultural Research (NIHORT), identified several factors affecting vegetable exports. He stated, "It is becoming very challenging for farmers to cultivate their land. Vegetable seeds are very expensive. Transporting the seeds to farmers across the country to plant is very tasking in view of insecurity and high cost of freight." NIHORT is working to develop local seed varieties to support farmers.
Source: The Nation Online