Paragraph 1: The Discrepancy Between Official Data and Market Reality
The Nigerian government asserts that food inflation is decreasing, citing the National Bureau of Statistics’ June 2025 Consumer Price Index, which reported a slight dip to 38.2% from 40.66% in May. This decrease is attributed to increased food supply and government interventions. However, market surveys paint a starkly different picture. Across major Nigerian cities, the cost of essential food items remains stubbornly high, defying the official narrative. Consumers and traders alike express frustration at the persistent economic pressure. On-the-ground reports from Lagos, Oyo, Delta, Rivers, Anambra, Abuja, Sokoto, Kano, and Kaduna reveal that prices of staple foods like rice, beans, yam, tomato, maize, and garri have either remained stagnant or even increased over the past two months. This disconnect between reported data and lived experience fuels public skepticism about the government’s claims.
Paragraph 2: Soaring Food Prices in Southern Nigeria
Southern Nigeria, particularly the South-West and South-East, bears the brunt of escalating food prices. Market visits to Lagos, Oyo, and Osun states reveal significant price increases. In Lagos, the price of local parboiled rice has skyrocketed, along with other staples like maize, garri, tomatoes, and onions. Traders lament the unpredictable price fluctuations, impacting both buyers and sellers. The situation is mirrored in Oyo State, with Gbagi Market experiencing substantial price hikes, while Bodija Market sees only marginal decreases. Osun State faces similar challenges, with prices persistently climbing. Traders attribute the high cost of tomatoes and pepper to increased transportation costs from the North. The scarcity of supply due to the period between planting and harvest seasons exacerbates the situation.
Paragraph 3: Struggling Under the Weight of High Food Costs in Anambra, Imo, and Delta
The food crisis also grips Anambra, Imo, and Delta states, where residents struggle with escalating prices of essential commodities. Market surveys reveal widespread discontent among traders and consumers who blame rising transportation costs, unpredictable supply chains, and poor economic management. In Anambra, prices have surged by as much as 30% between May and July, impacting staple foods like rice and yam. Delta State experiences similar challenges, with prices remaining high in Asaba’s major markets. Imo State also faces steep price increases, particularly in Owerri, affecting tomatoes, sugar, flour, and rice. While Rivers State offers a glimmer of hope, the continued struggle for affordability casts a shadow of worry over the entire region.
Paragraph 4: Price Discrepancies and Frustration in Abuja
The nation’s capital, Abuja, mirrors the food price woes experienced in other southern regions. Prices of key food items have increased significantly, contradicting government assurances of declining prices. The cost of Nigerian and foreign rice, beans, maize, garri, tomatoes, pepper, onions, and yams has all seen marked increases since May. Traders at Garki Market confirm the upward price trend, citing rising transportation and wholesale costs. Consumers express disbelief at official reports of falling food prices as they grapple with the harsh realities of increased expenses. This disconnect between official narratives and market realities further erodes public trust in government pronouncements.
Paragraph 5: A Glimmer of Hope in Northern Nigeria
While southern Nigeria struggles with high food prices, some northern regions, including Kaduna, Sokoto, and Benue, experience a welcome decline in the cost of essential commodities. In Kaduna, prices of foreign and local rice, beans, tomatoes, and garri have decreased, while other items like soya beans and onions remain expensive. Sokoto also witnesses price reductions for rice, beans, maize, and yams. Similarly, Benue reports drops in prices for rice, garri, beans, tomatoes, and pepper. Traders in these regions attribute the price relief to the arrival of new harvests, offering a glimmer of hope for further reductions in the coming weeks. The contrasting fortunes of northern and southern Nigeria highlight regional disparities in food security and the impact of various factors on market prices.
Paragraph 6: Government Initiatives and Expert Analysis
The Federal Government emphasizes its commitment to transforming the agricultural sector and reducing post-harvest losses through the establishment of Agricbusiness Industrial Hubs. This initiative, in partnership with state governments and international development partners, aims to leverage global expertise and best practices for sustainable growth and social inclusion. However, experts point to several factors contributing to the persistent high food prices in Southern Nigeria. Insecurity in the North disrupts agricultural production and transportation, while poor infrastructure, lack of food price regulation, inadequate storage facilities, and increasing demand in urban areas further exacerbate the problem. The disconnect between improved macroeconomic indicators and the reality of rising food prices in Southern markets underscores the need for more effective interventions and policies to address the ongoing food crisis and ensure food security for all Nigerians. Experts emphasize the importance of tackling insecurity, improving infrastructure, regulating food prices, enhancing storage facilities, and addressing climate change challenges to mitigate the impact of food inflation and improve the lives of ordinary citizens.
