PBAN debunks claims of sharp drop in flour prices

The Premium Breadmakers Association of Nigeria (PBAN) has dismissed as false and misleading claims circulating on social media that the price of flour has dropped to between ₦35,000 and ₦40,000 per 50kg bag.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the association described the viral posts as deceptive and aimed at inciting the public against bread producers who are grappling with rising production costs.

PBAN said findings across major markets show that as of December 16, 2025, the price of a 50kg bag of wheat flour ranges between ₦55,000 and ₦62,000, depending on the brand and point of purchase.

According to the association, although some flour millers recently announced a marginal reduction of about ₦2,000 per bag, the reduction is insignificant and does not translate into meaningful relief for bakers or consumers.

PBAN explained that the ₦2,000 reduction amounts to an estimated ₦20 saving on a family-sized loaf of bread, an amount that is immediately offset by the rising costs of other key ingredients such as yeast, margarine, improvers and preservatives.

The association also highlighted several other factors driving bread production costs, including high energy prices, rising maintenance expenses, logistics challenges and labour costs.

It noted that most baking equipment used in Nigeria is imported, making replacement and repairs increasingly expensive due to foreign exchange pressures. In addition, bakers are facing higher fuel and transportation costs amid poor road conditions.

PBAN further said its members are complying with the new national minimum wage of ₦70,000, which has significantly increased wage bills, while multiple taxation by federal, state and local government agencies continues to place additional strain on operators.

Despite the challenges, the association said it remains sensitive to the declining purchasing power of Nigerians and has advised its members to maintain quality standards while introducing bread variants in different sizes to cater to various income levels.

PBAN assured consumers that bread prices would be reviewed downward once production costs and economic conditions show a genuine and sustainable decline.

The association urged the public to ignore what it described as misinformation spread by individuals unfamiliar with the realities of manufacturing in Nigeria.

The statement was signed by the association’s General Secretary, Emmanuel Onyoh.