The Tomato Paradox
- Leti Kleyn
- Oct 16
- 3 min read
Updated: Oct 23
Every year, World Food Day reminds the global community that food security is both a human right and a shared responsibility. This year's theme, "Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future", carries even more profound significance as it coincides with the 80th anniversary of the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations. For Nigeria, where food insufficiency continues to threaten millions of households, the message of collaboration is urgently required. Tomatoes, one of the country's most consumed vegetables, offer a powerful lens through which this challenge can be viewed.
Nigeria can feed itself and thrive by empowering farmers, investing in infrastructure, and building resilient value chains.
Statistics show that Nigeria is the largest producer of tomatoes in sub-Saharan Africa, with an average annual yield of 1.8 million metric tons, grown mainly in the northern part of the country. Yet the country imports over 1.3 million metric tons of tomato paste yearly. Even more troubling is that about 40% of local tomatoes are lost between harvest and market. This paradox—abundance amid shortage—reveals not a production deficit, but a broken value chain that weakens food security and farmer livelihoods.
The Tomato Paradox: Abundance Meets Shortage
Nigeria's tomato story is one of contrasts. Farmers abundantly cultivate the crop in states like Kano, Kaduna, Katsina, and Plateau. Yet supermarket shelves are filled with imported paste. Poor storage, limited processing, and weak transport networks mean nearly half of the harvested tomatoes never reach consumers. This waste raises prices, reduces farmer income, and fuels import dependence. A country that grows tomatoes in abundance should not struggle to feed itself. Closing this gap requires rebuilding the chain from soil to shelf through innovation, training, investment, and collaboration.
Seeds of Change: Strengthening Farmers and Farming Systems
The transformation of Nigeria's tomato subsector begins with the farmers. Most smallholders rely on rain-fed agriculture, traditional seed varieties, and limited irrigation, making them vulnerable to climate-related shocks. Strengthening the foundation requires climate-resilient seeds, affordable irrigation technologies, and modern training in soil and water management.
Partnerships among research institutions, government, and private investors can accelerate this change. Introducing hybrid tomato varieties that are resistant to pests and drought-tolerant has already improved yields in northern Nigeria. Scaling such innovations, while ensuring affordability, availability, and accessibility, will help farmers produce more sustainably and adapt to a changing climate. When farmers thrive, the entire value chain becomes stronger and more resilient.
From Farm to Market: Tackling Post-Harvest Losses
The real challenge often begins after harvest. Approximately 40% of Nigeria's tomato output is lost due to poor storage, inadequate logistics, and a lack of processing capacity. Farmers watch their produce rot in many rural areas because there are no cold storage facilities, rural roads, or processing plants to absorb surpluses. Reducing tomato loss requires investment in cold chains, transport networks, and agro-processing hubs located near production zones. Turning excess harvests into paste, juice, puree, or dried products can extend shelf life, stabilise prices, and create jobs. Every tomato saved from waste strengthens the nation's food security and economy.
Policy Pathways
Transforming the tomato value chain requires practical, coordinated policies integrating production, processing, and marketing. Priorities include:
Subsidised access to quality seeds, fertilisers, and mechanisation.
Revitalised extension services for climate-smart and pest-resistant practices.
Rural infrastructure to reduce post-harvest losses.
Processing plants in key producing states to absorb surpluses.
Affordable credit and crop insurance for smallholders.
Collaboration across agriculture, trade, and industry ministries will prevent policy fragmentation and ensure cohesive progress.
Partnerships among research institutions, government, and private investors can accelerate this change. Introducing hybrid tomato varieties that are resistant to pests and drought-tolerant has already improved yields in northern Nigeria.
Towards a Future for Better Foods and Better Lives
World Food Day is not merely symbolic; it is a call to action. The 2025 theme reminds us that ensuring better foods for a better future requires working hand in hand across sectors. Farmers, policymakers, investors, researchers, and consumers must unite to create a food system where abundance meets access.
Every wasted tomato is a lost opportunity to nourish a family. Every imported paste is a reminder of untapped potential resources. Nigeria can feed itself and thrive by empowering farmers, investing in infrastructure, and building resilient value chains. As the FAO marks 80 years of advancing food security, Nigeria must seize this moment. The future of food lies in our hands, and the time to act is now.
Dr Ololade Latifat Abdulrahman
