Investors Eye Irish Potato Value Chain As Demand Rises

Growing demand for food products and the expansion of hospitality businesses across Nigeria are driving increased interest in the Irish potato value chain, with investors exploring opportunities to generate additional income while contributing to food security.

As restaurants, fast-food outlets and other hospitality establishments continue to spread across the country, the need for Irish potatoes and potato-based products has risen significantly. Industry stakeholders believe that investment in Irish potato production and processing offers attractive returns due to the crop’s versatility and growing market demand.

The Irish potato value chain encompasses the various stages involved in moving the crop from the farm to the final consumer, including cultivation, storage, transportation, processing and retailing. Beyond the sale of fresh tubers, investors can earn higher margins through value-added activities such as the production of chips, flour, frozen fries and other processed food products.

Findings by LEADERSHIP indicate that investment in Irish potato farming and processing is gaining attention as consumers increasingly seek affordable food options amid rising food insecurity and economic challenges.

Although some states have expanded efforts to cultivate the crop, Plateau State remains Nigeria’s major Irish potato-producing hub, making it a strategic location for sourcing raw materials and developing value-chain activities.

Stakeholders say the growing demand for food presents an opportunity for investors to support agricultural production while creating employment and strengthening food supply systems.

Speaking with LEADERSHIP Weekend , agribusiness expert Mr. Boniface Ayebe advised prospective investors to thoroughly understand the market before venturing into the business.

According to him, Irish potatoes are highly perishable and require proper handling and ventilation during transportation to minimise losses.

“An investor can start with about N500,000 as initial capital in the supply segment of the value chain and potentially realise up to N1.5 million from a successful transaction. However, it is important to have reliable buyers and established market channels,” he said.

Ayebe added that investments across the Irish potato value chain could create multiple direct and indirect jobs, while helping to improve food availability across the country.

Another stakeholder, Mr. Ngas, noted that Irish potatoes typically mature between 90 and 110 days after planting and require suitable climatic conditions for optimal yield and post-harvest preservation.

He advised farmers to pay attention to planting schedules, usually between mid-August and September, and to ensure harvested potatoes are stored under cool conditions to maintain freshness and reduce post-harvest losses.

“Farmers should handle the crop carefully during harvesting to avoid damaging the tubers and preserve seed quality for future planting,” he said.

With demand for processed and fresh potato products continuing to rise, industry operators believe the Irish potato value chain presents significant opportunities for investors seeking profitable ventures within Nigeria’s agricultural sector.