Oil palm yields in Nigeria more than double with improved farming practices

In Nigeria, the adoption of improved oil palm management practices has enabled some farmers to more than double yields, from around 2.7 t/ha to more than 6 t/ha per year, according to Solidaridad Nigeria.

The productivity gains are linked to better planting material, rehabilitation of ageing plantations and improved crop management. Key challenges in the sector still include old palm stands, poor-quality planting material and inefficient use of fertilizers and crop protection products.

Higher yields are seen as a key way to expand palm oil production without clearing additional forest land for new plantations. This approach could help producers increase output while also meeting sustainability requirements.

The issue is particularly important for smallholders, who account for around 80–82% of Nigeria’s oil palm production. Support programmes have already reached more than 10 thsd farmers and nearly 5 thsd processors, while around 600 farmer groups have received improved planting material.

More productive and sustainable production is also important for maintaining access to the EU market. Nigerian producers will increasingly need to meet requirements related to traceability, deforestation and sustainable land use.

Tags: oil palm, Nigeria