The Federal Government and several state governments have launched large-scale greenhouse projects aimed at revolutionizing vegetable production, creating thousands of jobs, and enhancing food security across Nigeria.
Through the National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA), the federal government has commenced the construction of modern, solar-powered greenhouse facilities in Abuja and other parts of the country. The initiative, officials say, is designed to ensure year-round production of high-value vegetables such as tomatoes, peppers, and avocados.
The first phase of the NALDA programme includes the establishment of about 20 high-tech greenhouses in the Federal Capital Territory, with additional units to be replicated nationwide. Each site will feature solar-powered irrigation systems, cold storage, and packaging houses to support efficient production and reduce post-harvest losses.
Beyond greenhouse farming, NALDA has also begun open-field vegetable gardens across the country at least 10 hectares per federal constituency with a special focus on empowering women and young farmers.
In Enugu State, the government plans to establish 340 greenhouse farms across the 17 Local Government Areas to promote the export of exotic vegetables and spices. These farms will be equipped with solar-powered cold boxes to preserve produce for export and reduce spoilage.
Similar initiatives are taking root in other states. In Taraba, a newly commissioned greenhouse near the State University in Jalingo has already produced its first harvest of cucumbers and green peppers using soil-less cultivation. Kogi State also recorded its first greenhouse cucumber harvest under the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) programme, signaling early success for the nationwide push.
Private agribusinesses are complementing government efforts. In Plateau State, Teva Foods recently launched the Jos-1 Greenhouse Farm Estate, a smart-farming hub using precision agriculture to cultivate bell peppers while training young Nigerians in modern farming techniques.
Experts say the greenhouse drive will strengthen food security, stabilize prices, and cut post-harvest losses while providing sustainable employment for thousands of Nigerians. It is also expected to position the country as a major player in the export of high-value vegetables.
According to NALDA’s leadership, the project represents “a strategic investment in the future of Nigerian agriculture one that combines technology, empowerment, and sustainability to ensure consistent food supply and economic growth.”
