The festive season in Nigeria has been marred by skyrocketing food prices, leaving many to celebrate Christmas with reduced fanfare. Traders across various markets in the country are lamenting poor patronage, citing the high cost of food items and transportation as major factors.
A survey conducted by The revealed significant price disparities across markets. In Lagos, a 50kg bag of rice sells for N85,000 to N90,000, while in Abuja, the same bag costs N76,800 to N86,400. The price of a live chicken has also increased, ranging from N20,000 to N35,000, depending on the location and size.
Traders in popular markets in Port Harcourt, Kano, and Kaduna are also struggling to make sales due to the high prices of foodstuffs and other commodities. Many residents are forced to make difficult choices between feeding their families and other essential expenses.
The government’s inaction in addressing the soaring food prices has left many feeling abandoned and frustrated. The World Bank has reported that the rising poverty levels in Nigeria, which now affect 104 million people, have exacerbated the situation.
With an inflation rate of 34.6 per cent in November, the highest in 28 years, economic instability and the removal of fuel subsidies have caused food and festive item prices to increase. Nigerians are calling on the government to intervene and provide relief to ordinary citizens.
