For decades, Nigerians assumed grapes could only thrive in Plateau State’s cool climate. That myth has now been broken in Kaduna, where the country’s largest commercial vineyard sprawls across 3.5 hectares, producing more than 10 grape varieties and harvesting twice a year. What began 25 years ago as a bold experiment has grown into one of the most profitable and sustainable agribusiness ventures in the nation.
The Business Case for Grapes
Unlike crops such as maize or rice, grapevines are not seasonal gambles. Once planted, they begin fruiting within 9–12 months and continue producing for more than 100 years. Yields rise with age, from 10–25 kilograms per vine in the early years to as much as 125 kilograms in maturity.
“This is one of the few crops where your profits grow as your vines age,” explained an agronomist at the Kaduna vineyard. “A single vine can generate up to ₦500,000 in one harvest, and because we harvest twice yearly, the potential is staggering.”
The numbers speak for themselves:
- A ₦1 million investment can establish 100–150 vines.
- Each vine yields about 25 kg in the first year.
- That equals 3,750 kg across 150 vines.
- At ₦7,000 per kg, revenue totals ₦26.25 million.
- Subtract the setup cost, and profit stands at ₦25.25 million within just one year.
“This level of return is simply unmatched in Nigerian agriculture,” said economist and investor Mr. Celestine Ukpong. “While most food crops provide slim margins, grapes are a generational asset, profitable from the first year and productive for a century.”
Food Security and Local Advantage
Nigeria currently imports most of the grapes it consumes, despite evidence that locally grown grapes often taste better, with higher sugar content and fewer chemicals. Farmers also highlight their superior shelf life: up to 45 days at room temperature, and as long as six months in cold storage.
“In terms of food security, grapes can reduce imports, save foreign exchange, and create new export opportunities,” said Akin Joshua, agribusiness strategist. “Kaduna’s model proves grapes can grow beyond Plateau, in Lagos, Ogun, Delta, and Abia, if we scale up investment and training.”
The market is already waiting. Farmers rarely take grapes to market because buyers come directly to the farms, often paying in advance. Demand far outstrips supply, with local production still too small to meet national consumption.
Beyond Profit—A Legacy Crop
Beyond the immediate profit, grape farming offers something most crops cannot: permanence. A vineyard planted today could sustain generations. “When you plant grapes, you are planting wealth that can last a hundred years,” said Ukpong.
Experts believe expanding grape farming could position Nigeria as a regional supplier, boosting not just farmer incomes but also national food security. “With strategic investment, Nigeria could move from importing grapes to exporting them within a decade,” Olaniyan added.
The Bottom Line
From Kaduna to Lagos, grape farming is emerging as Nigeria’s hidden agricultural goldmine. It promises investors exponential returns, farmers long-term security, and the nation reduced dependence on imports. In the words of one vineyard manager:
“Grapes are not just fruits. They are Nigeria’s next agricultural revolution.”
@2025 The Ameh News: All Rights Reserved
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