NESG Advocates Agro-Processing Investment to Reduce Losses

The Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) is calling for heightened investment in agro-processing, storage, and cold-chain infrastructure to address post-harvest losses, which are estimated to be between 30-40% for various food commodities. The NESG asserts that reducing these losses could unlock billions of naira in agricultural value, improve farmers' incomes, create jobs, and lessen Nigeria's dependence on imported food and industrial products.

The organization highlighted that agriculture is a key sector of Nigeria's economy, employing about 36% of the labor force. Challenges such as inadequate storage, limited processing capacity, and weak transportation networks contribute to significant losses, particularly during peak harvest periods.

The issue will be a focal point at the 32nd Nigerian Economic Summit, scheduled for October 26-27, 2026, at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja, under the theme "Growth that Works: Delivering Jobs, Productivity and Shared Prosperity." The summit will facilitate discussions among policymakers, farmers, and investors on strengthening domestic value chains and enhancing the processing of key commodities like cocoa, cassava, and rice.