Nigeria continues to assert itself as one of Africa’s leading onion producers, with an estimated annual output of 2.1 million metric tonnes, the National Onion Producers, Processors and Marketers Association of Nigeria (NOPPMAN) has said.

Speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria on Tuesday in Abuja, NOPPMAN’s national president, Alhaji Aliyu Isah, highlighted the economic significance of onion production, noting that the sector is valued at approximately N1.17 trillion annually.

“Nigeria currently produces about 2.1 million metric tonnes of onions annually, making us Africa’s second-largest producer after Egypt,” he said.

Isah explained that Nigerian onions are exported across West and Central Africa, as well as to select European markets, contributing significantly to rural livelihoods and the national agricultural economy.

He commended government interventions that have stabilised production and market prices, including support through improved seeds, fertilisers, and agrochemicals. Partnerships with ministries and agencies have also improved farmer training and access to modern agricultural practices.

“To strengthen the value chain, we are fostering cooperation among farmers, marketers, processors, and exporters, while collaborating with customs authorities to ease cross-border trade,” he added.

The association is also working with the Nigerian Export Promotion Council to reduce export costs and streamline logistics for processed onion products. Cross-border partnerships with Ghana, the Niger Republic, and Burkina Faso have further enhanced regional trade.

Isah noted that expanding onion processing facilities is key to increasing value addition and boosting both farmer income and national revenue. He encouraged youths to embrace agriculture and agribusiness, citing his own successful transition into onion farming after graduation.

“Participation in government agricultural programmes helped build my success, and youth involvement can drive innovation and productivity in the sector,” he said.

Looking ahead, NOPPMAN plans to scale production capacity, improve members’ welfare, and strengthen marketing and export promotion strategies. Isah expressed optimism that Nigeria could soon become Africa’s leading onion producer.