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Onion Farmers Request Subsidy From FG

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The National Onion Producers Processors and Marketers Association of Nigeria has called on the Federal Government and all relevant stakeholders to consider subsidy for onion seedlings and essential farming inputs to alleviate the financial burden on the farmers.

The group, while declaring a state of emergency on the onion industry across the country, called on all the relevant stakeholders which include the government at all levels and the financial house among others to rally together for solutions.

Addressing newsmen on Thursday, the President of NOPPMAN, Isa Aliyu, identified some of the challenges being faced by his members including the rising cost of onion seedlings, post-harvest losses, inflation as well as climate change and extended rainfall patterns.

“We also want the government to address post-harvest losses with the provision of modern storage facilities that can help preserve the quality of onions after harvest as well as reliable transportation systems that can minimize spoilage during transit”, he added.

Aliyu said the current economic situation and rising inflation have had a ripple effect on the entire sector.

He further called on the government at all levels to help members of the association have access to low-interest loans and financial support.

“The cost of farm inputs, fertilizer, pesticides, fuel and labour has soared, with farmers finding it increasingly difficult to break even, let alone turn a profit.

“Climate change has introduced new uncertainties into farming with extended rainfall patterns and other unusual weather conditions disrupting the traditional growing cycles.

“The excessive rain at unexpected times has led to crop diseases, waterlogging and poor harvests. As farmers contend with unpredictable, their ability to plan, plant and harvest effectively is being undermined, leaving the entire industry vulnerable”, Ajayi lamented.

He also called on agricultural research institutions and government bodies to support training programs that will help equip farmers with climate-smart practices.


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