Abuja: An agriculture technical expert, Mr Tony Ifeakandu, has called for coordinated efforts to tackle post-harvest losses in Nigeria’s tomato value chain, saying improved storage and preservation systems are key to stabilising supply and prices. Ifeakandu, the Managing Director of Autodex Nigeria Ltd., a vehicle and farm tractor assembly company, made the call in an interview with News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Ifeakandu said recurring tomato scarcity and price hikes were largely caused by weak coordination among farmers, inadequate storage facilities, and the absence of an efficient cold chain system. Most tomato farmers in northern Nigeria are smallholder producers who plant and harvest at different periods, making it difficult to coordinate supply.
He highlighted that many farmers harvest and transport their produce directly to the market without storage plans, resulting in significant losses. About one-quarter of harvested tomatoes never reach consumers due to their
perishable nature. Ifeakandu explained that without adequate cold storage facilities, tomatoes deteriorate quickly, leading to huge post-harvest losses.
Ifeakandu urged governments to invest in cold chain infrastructure and drying facilities in major tomato-producing areas. Such investments would help farmers preserve fresh tomatoes, reduce waste, and ensure year-round availability. He also advocated for coordinated farmer clusters to improve production planning and market supply.
He referenced China’s experience in drying and processing surplus tomatoes into tomato powder with a long shelf life. He emphasized that supporting farmers to preserve part of their harvest could reduce price fluctuations and ensure consistent supply.
The absence of efficient preservation systems also affects processors, as seen when his company’s tomato processing plant in Abuja suspended operations during the COVID-19 pandemic due to significant losses. Ifeakandu noted the challenges faced during the rainy season when high humi
dity spreads crop diseases.
He called for a national strategy for tomato preservation, drying, and storage, involving collaboration with technical partners and relevant stakeholders. Engaging organisations with expertise in cold chain technology is crucial to strengthening the country’s tomato value chain.
Ifeakandu concluded by stressing the need for a coordinated national approach involving federal, state, and local governments. He affirmed that collaboration, investment, and commitment are essential to reduce waste, improve supply, and make tomatoes affordable throughout the year.