Boost for Agriculture: Sokoto Unveils Cold-Storage Facility to End Onion Post-Harvest Losses

Sokoto State Governor, Ahmed Aliyu, on Monday, inaugurated the groundbreaking of a modern onion cold-storage facility in the More area of the metropolis, calling it a “game-changing investment” for the state’s agricultural economy.

The project, developed in partnership with the Ministry of Finance Incorporated, is designed to reduce post-harvest losses, increase storage capacity and enhance profitability for thousands of onion farmers in the region.

“This partnership holds tremendous promise for our people.

“With MOFI’s expertise and resources, we are launching a new chapter that strengthens production, processing, and distribution, not only for onions but also for other agricultural products where Sokoto has enormous potential,” Aliyu said.

The governor noted that onion farming has long been a key pillar of the state’s agriculture but requires modern support to reach its full commercial potential.

“For generations, our farmers have cultivated onions with dedication. Sokoto is the leading producer in Nigeria, but we must modernise and attract the type of investment that can take our produce far beyond our borders,” he said.

Aliyu reaffirmed that agricultural expansion remains a top priority under his 9-Point Smart Innovative Agenda, highlighting billions of naira already invested in the sector.

He cited the free distribution of fertilisers and agrochemicals in 2023 and 2024 and noted that this year alone, the government procured 38,000 bags of fertiliser worth over N1.8 billion to sell at subsidised rates.

He also mentioned the recent purchase of improved seeds for millet, maize, sorghum, rice, and beans worth N60 million, along with herbicides and insecticides valued at more than N36 million.

“Agricultural mechanisation remains key to our dream of food security. We awarded a contract for 250 Massey Ferguson tractors at a cost of N22.1 billion and have already paid 50 percent to ensure timely delivery,” the governor added.

On irrigation, Aliyu stated that rehabilitation efforts are underway at facilities across the state, including the Lugu Dam and Kware irrigation scheme, to guarantee all-year farming.

The governor emphasised that the onion cold-storage project aligns with Sokoto’s vision for wealth creation and export-driven agriculture. “Our goal is simple: empower farmers with finance, technology, and training, create sustainable jobs for youth and women and make Sokoto a major hub for agricultural export in Africa,” he said.

He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for ongoing national reforms, saying, “The economic reforms of the Federal Government are putting our country on the right track and giving states like Sokoto the platform to thrive.”

Officials say the cold-storage facility will stabilise onion prices, reduce waste by preserving quality for longer periods, and significantly improve earnings across the onion value chain.

In November, Aliyu unveiled the framework for the state’s 2026 budget.

He promised a people-driven fiscal agenda that reflects the aspirations of communities across all 23 local government areas.