As the festive season draws near, consumers across Nigeria are grappling with a significant surge in onion prices, which have reportedly increased by 200% in various markets nationwide.
This sharp rise is causing concern among both vendors and buyers, who are feeling the pinch of escalating costs during a period traditionally marked by increased spending.
Market traders attribute the price hike to several factors, including supply chain disruptions and increased demand as families prepare for holiday celebrations.
"The cost of transporting onions from the northern regions has doubled due to fuel price increases," explained Musa Ibrahim, a vendor at the popular Mile 12 Market in Lagos. "We have no choice but to pass these costs onto our customers."
In addition to transportation issues, adverse weather conditions earlier in the year have affected onion harvests, leading to reduced availability.
"This year's yield was not as good as expected," noted Aisha Bello, an agricultural analyst.
"Farmers are struggling to meet the high demand, especially as we approach the end of the year."
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