The Kaduna State Chairman of the Tomatoes Growers and Processors Association of Nigeria, Rabiu Zuntu, has assured Nigerians that the current surge in tomato prices will begin to ease from August as farmers commence the rainy season harvest.
Zuntu explained that the sharp increase in prices was caused by the end of the dry season harvest, which led to a temporary shortage of tomatoes across major markets. He said the situation is expected to improve once fresh supplies become available.
According to him, the association had projected that the price increase would persist until the end of July, after which the arrival of newly harvested tomatoes would boost supply and bring down market prices.
Tomato prices have risen significantly in recent months. A 50 kilogram basket that sold for between N18,000 and N20,000 in January now costs between N100,000 and N130,000, depending on the variety. In Lagos wholesale markets, a 25 kilogram crate is currently sold for between N50,000 and N70,000.
He attributed the seasonal shortage recorded between May and June to the effects of climate change, particularly extreme temperatures and inconsistent rainfall, which have affected production in major tomato producing states including Kaduna and Kano.
Zuntu said the increasing use of flood resistant tomato varieties has helped many farmers continue cultivation during the rainy season. He noted that without these improved seeds, consumers might have had to wait until October or November before prices declined.
He also called for wider distribution of heat tolerant seed varieties to strengthen production and reduce the impact of changing weather conditions on tomato farming.
The TOPAN chairman appealed to both government and private investors to establish more cold storage facilities, saying improved storage would reduce post harvest losses and ensure a steadier supply of tomatoes throughout the year.
He said preserving harvested tomatoes for several weeks instead of allowing them to spoil would help close the gap between supply and demand, leading to more stable prices.
Zuntu further urged the government to sustain support for tomato farmers through the provision of improved seeds, fertilisers and agrochemicals, adding that continuous investment in the tomato value chain is necessary to improve productivity, encourage farmers and guarantee long term food security.
He added that although the current high prices have enabled many farmers to recover losses from previous production seasons, greater investment remains essential to achieve lasting price stability.
