Ramadan Demand, Fuel Costs Push Food Prices Higher Across Nigeria as Eid Nears

Story: written by springnewsng March 19,2026
Food prices across Nigeria have climbed sharply as heightened demand during Ramadan and rising transportation costs put pressure on household budgets ahead of Eid celebrations.
A market survey in Lagos shows that key ingredients used in popular meals like jollof rice and stew have recorded noticeable price increases compared to January 2026 levels. Staples such as rice, tomatoes, and fresh pepper have all surged, reflecting a combination of seasonal demand and supply constraints.
A 50kg bag of rice now sells for about N61,000, up from an average of N56,000 earlier in the year, with variations depending on brand and grain quality. Similarly, a large basket of fresh tomatoes has jumped to around N41,000, representing a 17 percent increase from its January price of N35,000. Fresh pepper has seen an even steeper rise, climbing to approximately N46,000 from N30,000.
Traders attribute the spike partly to reduced farming activity during the fasting period. A tomato seller in Lagos noted that many farmers temporarily scale down operations during Ramadan, tightening supply and pushing prices upward. However, the trader expressed optimism that prices may ease once the fasting period ends and farming activities resume fully.
Despite the upward trend in some staples, there has been a slight relief in the cost of cooking oils. A 25-litre keg of vegetable oil now sells for about N55,000, down from N66,000 in January, while palm oil has dropped to around N48,000 from N58,000.
Market operators say the situation remains mixed. Bose Idowu, a trader at Ketu Market, explained that while certain items are becoming more expensive, others have maintained relative stability. She warned, however, that further increases may be inevitable due to rising fuel prices.
According to her, transporters have already begun raising haulage fees, forcing traders to pass on the additional costs to consumers. Since a significant portion of Nigeria’s food supply is transported from the northern regions to southern markets, higher fuel prices typically translate into increased food costs nationwide.
Recent data from the National Bureau of Statistics indicates that food inflation rose to 12.12 percent in February, up from 8.89 percent in January, reversing a brief period of declining prices. Analysts link this spike largely to Ramadan-driven bulk buying and stockpiling by households preparing for the festive season.
Meanwhile, global developments may further compound the situation. The ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran has disrupted oil markets, contributing to volatility in fuel prices. In Nigeria, petrol prices are already nearing N1,200 per litre in major cities, following adjustments by marketers and refiners.
Agricultural stakeholders warn that the ripple effects could be severe. Muhammed Magaji, president of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), said rising logistics costs could significantly increase the cost of moving produce from farms to markets. He cautioned that production expenses may double compared to 2025 levels, potentially pushing more farmers into financial distress and discouraging agricultural output.
With Eid festivities approaching, many Nigerians may face tougher spending decisions as food prices continue to rise, driven by a mix of seasonal demand, supply challenges, and escalating fuel costs.