According to data from the National Bureau of Statistics, Nigeria imported apples and strawberries worth N33bn in the first 6 months of 2026. The imports were mainly from South Africa. In the first quarter, N10.38bn worth of apples were imported, while in the second quarter, a total of N22.65bn worth of apples and strawberries were imported. This significant import bill highlights the country's reliance on foreign produce.
Apples are known to grow well in temperate climates with cold seasons, but they can also thrive in moderate weather. Plateau State in Nigeria has a suitable climate for apple production, with temperatures ranging from 65-75°F. However, despite its potential, apple production in the state has been limited. Former President of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria, Mohammed Gettado, attributed this to a lack of government support and the perception that apples are a luxury item.
Gettado stated that apples grow well in Plateau State, but the government has not provided sufficient support to farmers. He emphasized that subsidized inputs, such as fertilizers and improved varieties, are essential for scaling up production. Farmers also require access to markets to sell their produce. Gettado argued that with the right support, Nigeria can produce apples in large quantities and even export them.
The production of strawberries in Nigeria is also facing challenges, particularly in terms of transportation logistics. Strawberries have a short lifespan and require careful handling to prevent damage. Deola Balogun, Chief Operating Officer of Limlim Foods, noted that the cost of logistics is often higher than the cost of the fruit itself. The halt of Arik Air's operations to Plateau State has further exacerbated the problem.
Balogun highlighted the difficulties of transporting strawberries by road, citing the short lifespan of the fruit and the challenges of navigating rough roads and checkpoints. She noted that even with the use of specialized packaging and ice, a significant percentage of the fruit is lost during transportation. This has resulted in significant losses for farmers and has hindered the growth of the strawberry industry.
The challenges facing the apple and strawberry industries in Nigeria have significant implications for food security. The country's reliance on imports highlights the need for government support for local farmers. Gettado and Balogun emphasized the importance of addressing the challenges facing farmers, including logistics and access to markets. With the right support, Nigeria can increase its production of apples and strawberries and reduce its reliance on imports.
The Nigerian government can take steps to support farmers and improve food security. This includes providing subsidized inputs, improving access to markets, and investing in transportation infrastructure. By addressing these challenges, Nigeria can increase its production of key crops and reduce its reliance on imports. This will help to improve food security and support the growth of the agricultural sector.
Key points
- Nigeria imported apples and strawberries worth N33bn in the first 6 months of 2026.
- Apple production in Plateau State is hindered by a lack of government support and the perception that apples are a luxury item.
- Transportation logistics pose a significant challenge to strawberry production in Nigeria, with high costs and short lifespans contributing to significant losses.
