Onion farmers in Jigawa State have reportedly incurred losses approaching ₦1 billion following the use of low-quality seeds during the previous rainy season.
This was revealed by the Chairman of the Jigawa Onion Farmers Association, Malam Dauda Marma, during an interview with Jigawa State Radio.
According to Malam Dauda, the massive loss was traced to the distribution of inferior onion seeds allegedly imported from Morocco.
He stated that the seeds were smuggled into the state through neighboring Kebbi and Yobe States by unscrupulous seed vendors.
He expressed strong concern over the situation, warning that any individuals found selling or distributing substandard seeds within the state would face legal action without exception.
To mitigate future risks and promote sustainable growth, Malam Dauda also announced the association’s plans to establish a dedicated onion market in Marma Town, located in the Kirikasamma Local Government Area.
He noted that this initiative is part of a broader effort to strengthen onion production in the state, particularly as several African countries have expressed growing interest in sourcing farm produce from Jigawa.
