The Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC) is collaborating with the Bank of Industry (BoI) to establish an onion processing facility aimed at reducing post-harvest losses and improving value addition in Nigeria’s onion sector. The director-general of RMRDC made this known during a visit to BoI’s CEO in Lagos, where both parties discussed strategies for converting surplus fresh onions into high-value products like flakes and powder. These products are intended for both domestic consumption and international markets.
Nigeria, one of Africa’s top onion producers, often faces over 50 percent post-harvest losses due to poor preservation methods, a lack of processing infrastructure, and weak market access. The proposed facility aims to address these challenges by processing excess onions, minimising waste, and creating employment opportunities. It is also expected to support broader goals around agricultural industrialisation and food security.
BoI’s CEO welcomed the partnership and stressed the importance of evaluating all critical factors before launching the project. He noted that both institutions will undertake detailed research and feasibility studies to ensure the facility meets its objectives.
In addition to reducing waste, the facility is expected to extend the shelf life of onions, boost farmers’ earnings, and position Nigeria to benefit from global demand for processed onions.
This initiative follows RMRDC’s recent collaboration with the University of Benin to boost commercialisation of raw materials and industrial inputs for manufacturing across various sectors.
