Farm Junction Urges Government Intervention to Tackle Post-Harvest Loss Crisis

By: Olumide Afeez

Mr. Yinka Omogoye

Mr. Yinka Omogoye, Director of Farm Junction, has raised urgent calls for government intervention to combat the massive post-harvest losses currently plaguing farmers and aggregators across Nigeria. According to him, the glut in the market, particularly affecting perishables like tomatoes, has led to severe financial losses for farmers, many of whom rely on loans to finance their operations. Without immediate action, this situation could discourage future agricultural production, endangering food security nationwide.

Speaking during an interview with Voice of the Farmers, Omogoye highlighted the dire state at Lagos' Mile 12 Market, where over 20 trucks loaded with tomatoes have been stuck for more than 24 hours, contributing to wastage. The accelerated ripening of tomatoes, driven by harsh climate conditions in the northern region, has forced farmers into unscheduled harvests, exacerbating supply surpluses.

The challenges do not end with oversupply. Transportation and storage systems are critically inadequate. Tomatoes are transported in open-roof trucks over long distances, exposing them to heat damage. The lack of cold chain infrastructure compounds the problem, making it nearly impossible to preserve the quality of perishable goods.

Omogoye recommends that the government focus on key areas requiring investment:

Storage and Cold Chain Facilities: Subsidized cold storage units and partnerships with companies like Eco Tutu to mitigate spoilage and extend product shelf life.

Transportation Systems: Investments in temperature-controlled logistics solutions are essential for transporting perishables over long distances.

Processing and Value Addition: Supporting businesses that can process surplus produce into value-added products, like tomato paste and egg powder, would prevent wastage and stabilize market supply.

He further emphasizes the importance of long-term, intentional planning over quick fixes, calling for structured short-term, mid-term, and long-term strategies to strengthen the agricultural value chain. Omogoye notes that while large businesses may absorb some shocks due to diversified operations, smallholder farmers—who make up 70-75% of food producers—bear the brunt of the losses.

"Without robust support systems, farmers will scale back production to minimize risks, which will eventually drive food prices up," he warned. "We need comprehensive policies and financial interventions to avoid future crises."

Farm Junction remains hopeful that sustained advocacy will prompt the government to act decisively, securing a more sustainable agricultural future for Nigeria.