Nigeria: Farmers explain ways to increase tomato availability

The recent surge in tomato and pepper prices in Nigeria has left many stunned. Despite being one of the largest producers of the vegetables due to favourable weather and soil conditions in the country, millions of Nigerians can no longer afford them. Prices of the items have skyrocketed beyond the reach of citizens, a situation that is affecting not only people in the producing areas, but also consumers in other parts of the country who rely on them for supply. As consumers struggle to afford these staple food condiments, traders and restaurateurs who rely on them are also feeling the pinch. Restaurants and food vendors are finding it challenging to maintain their menus, forcing consumers to seek alternative means. Some have even resorted to cooking without tomatoes. Stakeholders at the Farin Gada market, a prominent perishable market in Jos, the Plateau State capital, expressed concern that the high cost of goods and services had increased significantly with the prices of ...