The President of the Organisation for Technology Advancement of Cold Chain in West Africa (OTACCWA), Mr Alexander Isong, says Nigerians may face rice, tomato and other staple food shortages within three months.
Isong, who is also the Country Director, Nigeria World Agriculture Forum, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in an interview on Sunday in Lagos that the projected shortages could worsen food inflation and further strain households already struggling with rising food prices across the country.
According to him, rice production is projected to decline by 6 per cent to about 8.3 million tonnes, while cultivated land may be reduced by 7 per cent.
“Rice is the big one. Production is projected to drop 6 per cent to 8.3 million tonnes.
“The area planted is down 7 per cent to 4.2 million hectares.
“The United States Department of Agriculture confirms a five per cent decrease year-on-year. Tomatoes are another headache,” he said.
He said that lower production and reduced planting would significantly reduce food availability in major markets nationwide.
Isong said that tomato shortage could persist until the late harvest season expected in October.
He added that maize, sorghum and millet could also face supply pressure because of reduced planting recorded in 2025.
He said that onions and peppers were already experiencing limited supply in major producing areas, leading to sudden increases in prices.
The OTACCWA President blamed insecurity, declining production, supply chain disruptions and inadequate storage infrastructure for the growing food supply challenges.
According to him, thousands of farmers have been displaced in northern Nigeria, disrupting farming activities and reducing agricultural output.
“Insecurity in major food-producing areas must be addressed. Farmers cannot produce enough food if they are unable to access their farms safely.
“Strengthening security in key agricultural belts, particularly in Northern Nigeria, is essential to restoring production and stabilising food supplies.
“Transportation and logistics costs must be reduced.
“Transport now accounts for a significant share of food prices. Improving rural roads, expanding rail freight for agricultural produce, and supporting more efficient logistics will help reduce the cost of moving food from farms to urban markets,” he added.
According to him, averting shortages of rice, tomatoes, peppers, onions and other staple foods over the next three months, will require coordinated action from the Federal Government, state governments, the private sector and development partners.
GIK/APA