Transformation of Vegetable Value Chains in Nigeria: Spatial and Seasonal Lengthening
DOWNLOADNovember 4, 2024 - Liverpool-Tasie, Lenis Saweda O.; Yau, Rabiu; Ibrahim, Aisha L.; Bashir, Abdulmalik Y.; Olutunmogun, Victoria; Oyediji, Olubukola T.; Martins, Itohan E.; Onyeneke, Robert; Amadi, Mark; Emenekwe, Chukwuemeka; Wineman, Ayala; Belton, Ben; Tasie, Oyinkan; Ellis, Peyton; Reardon, Thomas
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EmailThe paper "Transformation of Vegetable Value Chains in Nigeria: Spatial and Seasonal Lengthening & Intensification" presents a rapid reconnaissance of vegetable value chains—specifically focusing on tomatoes and green leafy vegetables (GLVs) across three Nigerian states: Kaduna in the North, and Oyo and Ebonyi in the South. Conducted in 2022, the study surveyed 150 small firms and farms within these value chains, including input suppliers, farmers, wholesalers, logistics providers, and retailers.
The research reveals a significant transformation in these value chains, particularly with the extension of tomato and GLV supply chains beyond local, intra-state networks to medium and even inter-regional linkages. Tomatoes, predominantly grown in the North, are transported to the South over distances exceeding 1,000 kilometers. GLVs, traditionally sold locally, are also increasingly part of longer supply chains due to improved transport practices. This spatial lengthening has been facilitated by expanding production seasons using irrigation in key tomato-growing areas, such as the northern parts of Nigeria.
Wholesalers have emerged as central players in the value chains, handling logistics, aggregation, and coordination. Third-party logistics services (3PLS) also play a critical role in ensuring that both tomatoes and GLVs reach their markets, reflecting a growing dependence on external logistics providers, particularly for long supply chains. Notably, tomato value chains rely heavily on 3PLS to manage the transportation challenges associated with inter-regional distribution.
The study discusses several challenges affecting the intensification of vegetable farming and the midstream value chain segments. Major challenges include infrastructure deficiencies, such as poor road networks, inadequate storage facilities, and exposure to extortion and corruption along transport routes. Additionally, climate shocks like flooding and irregular rainfall threaten the stability of vegetable farming. These environmental issues, combined with insufficient access to irrigation for many GLV farmers, limit the capacity to maintain stable yields throughout the year.
Gender dynamics were also examined, revealing a contrast in the level of involvement between men and women in the different value chains. Women are more involved in GLV value chains due to lower entry costs and fewer resource requirements, whereas tomato farming and logistics are dominated by men because of higher cost barriers and social norms regarding long-distance trade.
The authors call for policy interventions that focus on both hard infrastructure—like better roads, storage facilities, and improved transport systems—and soft infrastructure, such as reducing corruption along transport routes and improving food safety practices. Empowering women through capital support and improving their participation in all value chain segments is also a key recommendation to ensure a more inclusive development of Nigeria's vegetable value chains.
Key Takeaways:
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Vegetable value chains in Nigeria are extending geographically due to irrigation and better transport practices.
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Wholesalers and 3PLS are vital to sustaining these extended value chains.
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Challenges include poor infrastructure, climate variability, and the need for gender inclusivity.
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Policy efforts should enhance infrastructure, address food safety, and support women's participation in the sector.
