**The Causes of Skyrocketing Tomato Prices in Nigerian Markets**
Sani Danladi, the Kano State chairman of the Tomato Out Growers Association of Nigeria (TOGAN), revealed that the resurgence of Tuta absoluta, a devastating pest known as “Tomato Ebola,” is the primary cause of the sharp increase in tomato prices across Nigeria.
In recent weeks, Nigerian households have faced significantly higher tomato prices due to a widespread shortage. Over the past month, tomato prices have steadily climbed as scarcity hit markets nationwide. Consumers have voiced their concerns on social media, comparing prices across different regions.
Mr. Danladi explained that Tuta absoluta reappeared in Kano, Katsina, Kaduna, and Jigawa states in February. This pest, a species of moth in the Gelechiidae family, severely affects tomato crops and has been a serious pest in Europe and South America. In 2016, a similar outbreak caused an 80% reduction in Nigeria’s tomato production, leading to nationwide price increases. Although tomatoes are the primary host, Tuta absoluta also attacks eggplants and potatoes.
Since first being detected in Nigeria in 2015, Tuta absoluta has spread to all major tomato-producing states. The Kaduna State government even declared a state of emergency in its tomato sector in 2016 due to the pest’s impact.
The current resurgence began in February, but larger production areas initially mitigated its effects. However, by April, the pest had significantly affected tomato availability, with most tomatoes now coming from Pankshin Plateau and Ikara in Kaduna State. As a result, prices have surged, with a kilo of tomatoes selling for over N2000, and a 25kg crate costing N45,000 from farmers.
High temperatures due to global warming have exacerbated the situation, as tomatoes do not thrive in hot weather. Mr. Danladi called for government assistance to help farmers manage the persistent pest problem. He emphasized the need for continuous monitoring and support, noting that Tuta absoluta is now a recurring issue.
In response, the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, led by Minister Abubakar Kyari, announced immediate measures to combat the infestation. Agricultural experts are being deployed to affected areas, and farmers are receiving resources and guidance to recover their crops.
Market surveys indicate that tomato prices have soared in various regions. In Abuja, a basket of tomatoes now costs between N100,000 and N120,000, up from N30,000 to N45,000 earlier in the year. Similar price hikes are reported in Lagos and Ido Ekiti.
The government is working to resolve the situation and restore affordable tomato supplies, but the challenge remains significant due to the persistent nature of the pest and climate-related issues.
