…Abuja foodstuff vendor at Lugbe Market, said the government’s actions had helped stabilize prices, making staples more affordable.
ABUJA, NIGERIA- The iNews Times | Some Abuja residents have lauded the Federal Government for its interventions aimed at reducing food prices, noting that the declining cost of essential food items has brought relief to consumers in the capital and across Nigeria.
The commendation came during separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Tuesday.
Mrs. Vivian Uche, Abuja foodstuff vendor at Lugbe Market, said the government’s actions had helped stabilize prices, making staples more affordable. “In a welcome development, food prices have fallen in markets across Nigeria, offering much-needed relief to Nigerians struggling with the rising cost of living.
“I sell beans, rice, and other staples. A bag of rice that cost N76,000 a few months ago now sells for N55,000. A module of gari has dropped from N1,000–1,200 to N500–600, while beans have fallen from N2,800–3,000 to N600–800 depending on quality. Prices of yam flour and other items have also decreased.
“This is a relief for us traders and the customers who buy our products,” she said.
Mrs. Ifeoma Iwuji, a civil servant in Abuja, highlighted the role of federal policies in improving food supply. “The government’s efforts to make food more available and affordable in Abuja and nationwide cannot be overemphasised. Increased supply has created surpluses, which in turn have pushed prices down.
“The cost of food has been a major burden. With prices dropping, we can now afford to buy more,” she added.
Mrs. Cynthia Chukwuma, a consumer at Lugbe Market Abuja, welcomed the price reductions but urged that the lower prices be sustained. “We need to see if this drop is long-term. We have experienced price reductions before, only for them to rise again. For now, families are benefiting from the lower costs.”
Mr. Kayode Iyiola, a mechanised farmer, attributed the price drop to several factors, including the federal government’s interventions and seasonal dynamics. “Food prices have declined nationwide due to government support and the current harvest season, which has increased supply. Improved security in farming areas has also allowed farmers to access their lands and produce more.
“The government’s free import waiver has boosted the availability of cheaper imports, while initiatives such as subsidised fertiliser distribution and dry-season farming support have also contributed to the price decline,” he said.
Kayode, however, cautioned that despite the reductions, many Nigerians continue to struggle with low purchasing power and stagnant incomes, making it challenging for some households to afford basic food items.
