Lagos Traders, Residents Lament Soaring Food Prices!
Reported by Marian Opeyemi Fasesan | Sele Media Africa
As Nigeria marks its 65th Independence anniversary, many Lagos residents and market traders have voiced deep concern over the sharp rise in food prices compared to the previous year.
Market Observations:
- At Mile 12 and Oyingbo markets, prices of staples such as rice, garri, yam, and tomatoes have nearly doubled.
- A 50kg bag of rice now sells for over ₦60,000, up from ₦38,000 in October 2024.
- A small basket of tomatoes that previously cost ₦8,000 now goes for ₦14,500.
Voices from the Ground:
- Mrs. Amina Lawal, a trader at Oyingbo, lamented:
“We are barely surviving. Customers complain daily, but it’s not our fault — suppliers blame fuel costs and insecurity on the highways.” - Mr. Kunle Ojo, a resident of Surulere, said his family had to cut down on protein and vegetables:
“Even Independence Day jollof was just rice and stew. No meat.”
Economic Context:
- The spike in food prices has been linked to inflation, the removal of fuel subsidies, and insecurity affecting farming communities and transportation.
- Many citizens say the celebratory mood of Independence Day has been replaced with anxiety over daily survival
Sources:
- Guardian Nigeria – guardian.ng
- NBS Consumer Price Index Reports – Sept. 2025
- Interviews at Mile 12 & Oyingbo Markets, Sept. 30, 2025.
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