Survey shows consumers buy less as food prices climb in Lagos markets

Food prices in major Lagos markets increased again in May 2026 after many items became cheaper in April.

Traders blamed the latest increase on higher transport and logistics costs, seasonal supply changes, and rising diesel prices.

According to the survey, fuel prices rose from N1,245 per litre in April to an average of N1,330 in May, making it more expensive to move food into Lagos markets.

The survey covered 67 common food items across Mushin, Mile 12, Daleko, and Oyingbo markets and showed that food prices are becoming more stable compared to previous months, although costs remain under pressure.

What the figures show

27 food items increased in price in May (up from 18 in April).

17 items became cheaper (down from 44 in April).

23 items recorded no price changes (up from only five in April).

Nigeria’s inflation also rose slightly in April:

Headline inflation increased to 15.69% from 15.38% in March.

Food inflation rose to 16.06% year-on-year, though this remains lower than 24.68% recorded in April 2025.

The increase was linked to higher prices of products such as millet, yam flour, ginger, beef, garri, beans, tomatoes, wheat, soybeans, and plantain.

Traders speak

Traders across Lagos markets said customers are spending more carefully.

A grains seller in Oyingbo said many buyers now purchase smaller quantities because of rising costs.

Another trader in Daleko explained that although market conditions are calmer than before, transport expenses are still keeping prices high.

Tomato sellers in Mile 12 also said spoilage remains a challenge, forcing quick price adjustments.

Food items that became more expensive

Some of the biggest increases recorded in May include:

Big bag of pepper: N105,000 → N120,000

Medium bag of pepper: up to N80,000

Brown beans (above 50kg): N120,000 → N130,000

Oloyin beans: N65,000 → N70,000

25-litre local vegetable oil: N53,000 → N62,000

5-litre vegetable oil: N11,500

Ayoola poundo yam flour: N16,500 → N18,350

2kg Honeywell wheat: N2,300 → N2,550

450g Milo refill: N3,600

Other products that recorded increases included yam, semovita, and dairy products.

Food items that became cheaper

Some foods recorded lower prices due to improved supply:

Dry onions: N105,000 → N80,000 per big bag

360g Bournvita refill: fell to N3,550

Sweet potatoes: N30,000 → N24,000

Round tomatoes: N65,000 → N60,000

Oval tomatoes: dropped to N35,000

25-litre local palm oil: N55,000 → N45,000

Other items that dropped included Power Oil, Kings vegetable oil, and some frozen foods.

Overall, the survey suggests that food prices in Lagos are no longer rising across all items, but higher transport and fuel costs are slowing down how quickly prices can reduce.

Source: Nairametrics