Nigeria Produces 2.1 Million Tonnes of Onions Yearly—Marketers

Nigeria produces approximately 2.1 million tonnes of onions annually, according to the National Onion Producers, Processors, and Marketers Association of Nigeria (NOPPMAN). This figure shows that Nigeria is one of the leading onion producers in Africa.

Speaking in Abuja on Tuesday, Aliyu Isah, national president of NOPPMAN, stated that the crop is worth approximately ₦1.17 trillion. He mentioned that the yearly production solidifies Nigeria’s standing as Africa’s second-largest producer of onions, after Egypt.

The volume of production has also made the nation a significant supplier to regional markets.

“Nigeria currently produces about 2.1 million metric tonnes of onions each year, with strong demand both locally and internationally,” Isah told journalists. “This crop is a major part of our agricultural economy and supports rural livelihoods.”

Onions are grown in several states in the country’s northern agricultural region, including Kano, Sokoto, Jigawa, Kaduna, Katsina, Bauchi, and Kebbi. These places are known for good climate and soil conditions, which help production thrive.

Isah pointed out that Nigerian onions are not only consumed within the country but are also exported to West and Central Africa, as well as some European markets.

“Working with ministries, agencies, and customs authorities has improved trade routes and made cross-border movement easier,” he said, referring to the rising regional demand.

Despite the strong production numbers, challenges still hold back Nigeria’s full potential.

Experts worry about the quality of inputs, especially counterfeit and substandard seeds, which have caused losses for farmers and led to fluctuations in output and supply.

Other issues include a lack of processing and storage facilities, which many analysts believe limits the value farmers and marketers can get from their produce.

Nigeria currently does not have enough facilities to process onions into higher-value products, leading to losses and missed economic chances.

To tackle these challenges, Isah emphasized ongoing efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s onion value chain. “Better marketing strategies, promoting exports, and cooperation among farmers, processors, and exporters are central to our 2026 agenda,” he noted.

He also encouraged young people to get involved in agribusiness. He describes farming as a viable economic opportunity that goes beyond just looking for a job. It can drive innovation and enhance productivity in the sector.

With ongoing investment in seed quality, storage, and processing capabilities, industry experts believe Nigeria could increase its share in regional and global onion markets in the future.