There are growing concerns for ginger farmers in Nigeria, particularly the ones in the Federal Capital Territory, FCT. Farmers in the area have cried to the government for protection and support for them to overcome the problems faced over production of ginger. The affected farmers in Bwari Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) are worried about the 2025 planting season due to a lack of quality seedlings and security concerns. The farmers suffered losses in 2023 due to a fungal disease, resulting in a significant drop in production and supply, with the federal government estimating losses of over ₦12 billion in 2024.
They expressed concerns over lack of access to good seedlings, and the high cost of production, which has made it difficult for many to venture into ginger production, though some farmers who were successful in neighboring states like Kaduna have stored bags for sale and have good seedlings for the next farming season.
However, as they cried out in 2023, when ginger farms were hit by disease thus threatening Nigeria’s place as one of the leading producers in the world, the farmers are urging the government to hasten research on a lasting solution to salvage the situation. That is not the only concern. Ginger farmers are also appealing to the government to tighten security measures capable of addressing the menace of kidnapping, which might prevent farmers from returning to their farms. Little wonder that the price of ginger has gone up in the local market.