Nigeria could become a global leader in pineapple production and exports if governments at all levels prioritise access to financing, especially among youths, according to Segun Alabi, founder of Davidorlah Farm.
The agribusiness entrepreneur who is also the CEO of Davidorlah Nigeria Limited noted that the global demand for pineapple is growing steadily, and Nigeria, with its climate advantage and large youth population, could become a major player in the international fruit market if properly positioned.
He also argued that pineapple farming is not only a lucrative business, but that pineapple farms are immune to destruction by cattle, unlike other crops.
Speaking in Ago-Iwoye, Ijebu North Local Government Area of Ogun State, during the allocation of plots to new subscribers of his farm’s second-phase pineapple plantation, Alabi said agriculture remains a viable path to economic empowerment, especially for young people, if backed by the right policy and funding.
“If Nigeria becomes the highest producer of pineapple in the world, supplying other countries, it would be one of the best things the government can do for youth. A major issue is finance”, Alabi said.
While explaining the value chain in pineapple, he noted that apart from using the fruit for juice, its peel can be used for shoes, clothes, bio-fuel production, creation of renewable energy, and cloth production as well as shoes.
The entrepreneur informed that his firm is in partnership with investors in the area of turning pineapple waste to wealth from the Netherlands and Indonesia to solve the challenge of the importation of fertiliser.
Speaking further, he said Davidolar Farm is positioned to train people as well as become the largest exporter of pineapple. He said, ” We have trained over 500 people. The value chain in pineapple is so wide. Pineapple cultivation has positive socio-economic implications and creates jobs for many people in rural areas, thereby contributing to reducing unemployment and poverty.
He called for greater government support to unlock the country’s potential, stressing that targeted financing for youth-led agribusinesses would position Nigeria as a top global supplier of pineapple.
