Ramadan Sees Rise in Food Prices Across Nigeria

Ahead of Ramadan, prices for staple food commodities in Nigeria have seen significant increases. In Abuja, local rice prices for a jumbo pack (approximately 100 kg) are approaching N100,000, while beans have risen from N50,000 to N90,000, and maize prices have increased from N25,000 to between N27,000 and N30,000.

Traders like Salisu Muhammad report that the price hikes are primarily due to seasonal demand pressures and increased stocking by households and religious organizations. In Taraba, a 100 kg bag of white beans has surged from N65,000 to N110,000, while paddy rice has increased from N18,000 to between N28,000 and N30,000.

Despite these increases, some prices, such as palm oil, have seen slight drops. Bello Adamu, a farmer, expressed concerns over the poor prices for farm produce and the impact of capital loss during the wet season.

Femi Ok from AFAN noted that government interventions are crucial for stabilizing food prices during this festive season.