TREND ANALYSIS OF TOMATO PRODUCTION IN NIGERIA (2010 TO 2014)

Abstract

Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) is one of the most important vegetables worldwide. It plays a major role in the provision of vitamins and minerals for humans. Tomato is cultivated almost all over Nigeria and still short in supply. This study assessed the trend of tomato production in Nigeria between the year 2010 to 2014 considering likely causes of supply shortage and postharvest losses. The study was conducted through verbal interviews with tomato farmers across Nigeria and secondary data. Study revealed that about 45% of the tomatoes produced in Nigeria do not reach their destination due to poor handling and transportation resulting in shortage in supply. Results revealed that there was a negative correlation between the six (6) geo-political zones and the rate of tomato produced between the years 2010 to 2014 indicated a decline in the production of tomato across the six zones. There was a significant difference at 5%. A weak correlation between all the zones studied and the estimated land area were observed, an indication that the estimated land area cultivated for tomato production has less effect on the decline of tomatoes produced across the zones between the period under review. Rather, other factors like insect infestations, handling, packaging techniques and transportation from farm to markets were the likely causes for the drop in production. Suggestions proffers were that an appropriate packaging container be developed to improve handling and transportation, introduction of effective insecticides, availability of farm inputs and intensive land reclamation be done.