Stakeholders seek removal of barriers to onion trade
Stakeholders have pushed for the removal of barriers to the nation’s onion industry producing approximately 2.1 million metric tons annually, as the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) moves to dismantle trade
Stakeholders have pushed for the removal of barriers to the nation’s onion industry producing approximately 2.1 million metric tons annually, as the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) moves to dismantle trade barriers that have constrained regional exports. The country is currently positioned as Africa’s second-largest onion producer behind Egypt.
National President, National Onion Producers, Processors and Marketers Association of Nigeria, Alhaji Aliyu Isah, that Customs has pledged comprehensive support for onion export operations.
He explained that the industry has become a significant source of employment in rural communities while supplying markets across West and Central Africa, with additional volumes reaching European destinations.
Advertisement
300x250
He noted, however, that non-tariff barriers and logistical challenges have continued to hamper the sector’s export potential, prompting industry leaders to seek government intervention. Isah questioned the rationale behind trade restrictions within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
“You know the reason why ECOWAS has been formed is for economic integration. That is why it is called Economic Community of West African States. I see no reason why onion in Nigeria cannot be freely transported to Burkina Faso, to Ghana, to Côte d’Ivoire without any non-tariff barrier on those goods that are coming within the ECOWAS countries,” he argued. Drawing on historical precedent, the association president emphasised food’s special status even during conflict.
READ ALSO: NUC to develop framework for micro-credential programmes
“Even in the times of war, food is the only thing that is being allowed to move freely across even the countries that are at war with themselves. So I think first we must commend Mr. President for reopening the border for transit,” he said. Looking ahead, Isah stressed that investment in processing capacity would increase value addition and enhance farmer incomes. He also urged young Nigerians to embrace agriculture as a viable economic opportunity.
“Strengthening the value chain will enhance farmer income and national revenue, and young Nigerians are encouraged to embrace agriculture, because farming offers viable economic opportunities. Youth participation can drive innovation and increase productivity in the sector,” he said.
Advertisement
300x250
The association’s agenda includes marketing and export initiatives planned for 2026, alongside continued efforts to strengthen coordination among farmers, processors, marketers and exporters across Nigeria’s onion value chain. Recently, Comptroller-General of the NCS, Adewale Adeniyi, pledged full support for onion exporters following months of operational difficulties along key transit corridors.
“So let me assure onion farmers and other export-oriented stakeholders that the NCS will stand solidly behind you. We will remove all known non-tariff barriers and work with other government agencies and stakeholders to create a more facilitating environment for your trade,”
Adeniyi told a delegation of industry stakeholders. The Customs chief acknowledged that recent pressure from operators in Benin and the Niger regarding transit corridors through Northeastern Nigeria and the Kamba axis had created complications for agricultural exports.
“What you are doing will help us balance the story. We will not only be talking about imports and transit, but also about exports. Exports bring economic prosperity, create employment, support a favourable balance of trade, and ultimately contribute to GDP growth,” Adeniyi stated.
During the visit, President, Regional Observatory of Onion in West and Central Africa, Aliyu Maitasamu, welcomed the reopening of affected corridors and pledged the association’s support for compliance management.
“With recent developments and the reopening now in effect, we are here to appreciate the NCS for its prompt action,” Maitasamu said, adding that the association stands ready to support documentation and compliance across transit routes.
