Nigeria’s Tomato Production Costs Surge 700% As Prices Reach Record Highs

News in Brief:

—Tomato production costs in Nigeria have increased by more than 700%, forcing many smallholder farmers out of cultivation and reducing national output.

—Industry stakeholders are calling for investment in improved seeds, pest control, storage infrastructure and logistics to stabilise production and food prices.

Nigeria's tomato industry is facing mounting pressure as the cost of cultivating one hectare of tomatoes has increased by more than 700 per cent, forcing many smallholder farmers to abandon production and contributing to record-high consumer prices.

According to the Tomato and Orchard Producers Association of Nigeria (TOPAN), production costs have risen from about ₦300,000 per hectare to nearly ₦2.5 million, placing tomato cultivation beyond the reach of many small-scale farmers.

Higher prices for fertilisers, agrochemicals, pest control products and other essential farm inputs have increased the cost of production.

Pest Infestations and Low Harvests Reduce Supply

TOPAN National President, Oyeleke Bola, revealed that farmers who managed to cultivate tomatoes this season also faced severe pest infestations, common during the rainy season, resulting in lower harvests and inadequate market supply.

"Many farmers cannot afford the current cost of production; the few farmers who managed to cultivate also had to contend with heavy pest attacks during the rainy season, leading to low harvests and inadequate supply to meet market demands," Bola said.

He noted that rising production costs have created a significant barrier to entry, leaving only well-capitalised farmers able to sustain commercial tomato production.

Beyond farm-level challenges, transportation costs have continued to push tomato prices higher.

According to Bola, deteriorating road infrastructure, traffic congestion and increasing logistics expenses have made it more expensive to move tomatoes from major producing states to consumer markets.

The higher distribution costs have added to the financial burden on producers while increasing retail prices for consumers.

Industry Calls for Strategic Investment

The association said recurring seasonal shortages during the rainy season highlight the need for long-term investment to strengthen Nigeria's tomato value chain.

TOPAN called for greater investment in quality seed production, affordable fertiliser, integrated pest management, storage infrastructure and agricultural data systems to improve productivity and stabilise supply.

The association also emphasised the importance of expanding modern storage facilities to reduce post-harvest losses and preserve surplus production during periods of higher output.

According to industry stakeholders, coordinated investments in agricultural technology, infrastructure rehabilitation and improved farm inputs will be essential to restoring the sector's competitiveness, supporting farmers and strengthening national food security.