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How Nigeria Faces N50m Daily Loss Due to Pineapple Imports from Ghana and Togo

Published by Tope Fakinlede on August 30th, 2024.

How Nigeria Faces N50m Daily Loss Due to Pineapple Imports from Ghana and Togo

Agricultural experts in Nigeria are sounding the alarm over significant financial losses resulting from the country’s pineapple importation. Ambassador Oluwasegun Alabi, a veteran in agriculture, revealed that Nigeria loses about N50 million each day importing pineapples from Ghana and Togo. Despite Nigeria being the eighth-largest global producer of pineapples with an annual yield of 1,607,200 metric tons, the country imports pineapples from these nations due to its production falling short of local consumption needs by 50%.

Ghana and Togo, which produce less and rank 13th and 16th in global production, respectively, benefit from Nigeria’s imports. This situation arises from Nigeria’s inability to meet domestic demand and export standards due to poor farming practices and inadequate processing facilities.

Ambassador Alabi noted that pineapples grown in Nigeria often do not meet industrial standards, which undermines their suitability for export and industrial use. He pointed out that the lack of modern processing facilities in Nigeria prevents the country from participating in global markets for products like canned pineapples and pineapple concentrate juice.

Alabi urged the Nigerian government to improve the agricultural sector by adopting modern practices and investing in infrastructure. He also called for collaboration with experts to address Nigeria’s food security issues and capitalize on the potential for significant export revenue.