By Rasheeda Hamidu
Nigeria could face shortages of rice, tomatoes and other staple foods within the next three months if urgent measures are not taken to address declining agricultural production, insecurity and post-harvest losses, the Organisation for Technology Advancement of Cold Chain in West Africa (OTACCWA) has warned.
The warning was issued on Saturday by OTACCWA President, Alexander Isong, during an interview in Lagos, according to Radio Nigeria.
Isong said the projected shortages could worsen food inflation and increase pressure on households already struggling with rising food prices.
He said rice production is projected to decline by six per cent to about 8.3 million tonnes, while the cultivated area may shrink by seven per cent to 4.2 million hectares.
“Rice is the big one. Production is projected to drop six per cent to 8.3 million tonnes,” Isong said.
According to him, tomato shortages may persist until the late harvest season in October, while maize, sorghum and millet could also face supply constraints due to reduced planting in 2025.
He added that onions and peppers are already in limited supply in major producing areas, with rising transport and energy costs further driving up food prices.
Isong attributed the looming shortages to insecurity, declining production, supply chain disruptions and inadequate storage infrastructure, noting that thousands of farmers have been displaced from key food-producing areas in northern Nigeria.
He urged government at all levels, private investors and development partners to prioritise reducing post-harvest losses and improve access to quality seeds, fertilisers, irrigation and affordable credit ahead of the 2026/2027 planting season.
NatureNews notes that post-harvest losses, weak cold-chain systems and insecurity continue to undermine food security, agricultural productivity and climate resilience across Nigeria.