Rising Input Prices Surge 41%, Leaving Farmers with Heavy Harvest Losses
STORY: written by Joseph November 25,2025
Farmers across the country are facing deep financial setbacks as the cost of agricultural inputs has jumped by 41%, worsening harvest losses and raising fresh concerns about national food security.
According to field reports and market data, prices of essential farm inputs—such as fertilizer, pesticides, herbicides, and improved seedlings—have risen sharply in recent months. Many smallholder farmers, who form the backbone of Nigeria’s food production, say the soaring costs have forced them to reduce the size of their farms or completely abandon some crops.
Producers also complained that the high cost of diesel for irrigation pumps and transportation has further eaten into their profits, leaving them unable to break even despite a good planting season.
Agric economists warn that the situation is likely to trigger higher food prices nationwide, as reduced crop yield and rising production costs continue to push supply downward. They also caution that without urgent government intervention, the hardship faced by farmers could escalate into a major food crisis.
Some state associations have called for increased access to subsidised inputs, soft loans, and improved extension services to cushion the impact on rural farmers already struggling with insecurity, erratic rainfall, and weak market structures.
As households continue to grapple with rising food costs, the growing pressure on farmers underscores the critical need for stronger policy responses to stabilise the agriculture sector.
