By Adaora Adibe
In a strategic move to revolutionize Nigeria’s onion industry, the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC) and the Bank of Industry (BOI) have initiated discussions aimed at halting post-harvest losses and enhancing value addition in the onion value chain.
The Director General of RMRDC, Prof. Nnayelugo M. Ike-Muonso recently led a team on a courtesy visit to the Managing Director/CEO of BOI Dr. Olasupo Olusi in Lagos to explore collaborative opportunities focused on onion processing and export. The meeting emphasized the need for partnership to establish a facility aimed at processing surplus fresh onions into high-value flakes and powder primarily for domestic and export markets.
The DG RMRDC, stated that onion development would be a huge boom for Nigeria, and also suggested venturing into many other raw materials developments like jute bags which have high market values etc.
The establishment of an onion processing facility seeks to leverage the abundance of onion cultivated in Nigeria which most times suffers from over 50% postharvest losses due to inadequate preservation lack of processing infrastructure, and inefficient market access.
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During the meeting, the Managing Director of BOI expressed optimism and indicated a strong willingness to partner with RMRDC. He, however, noted that all necessary variables and factors for success must be critically evaluated before full implementation.
Both organizations agreed to embark on thorough research and feasibility studies to ensure the project achieves its objectives of reducing post-harvest losses, increasing onion shelf life, improving farmers’ incomes, and unlocking export opportunities for Nigerian onion products in the global market.
The proposed onion processing facility is expected to not only minimize waste but also create jobs, support industrial growth, and national objectives for agricultural industrialization, ensure food security and position Nigeria as a key player in the global onion value chain.
