Fatshimétrie conducted an in-depth study on the increase in food prices in the Enugu market, highlighting a worrying reality for many residents of the region. According to our recent observations, prices of basic necessities such as garri and rice have skyrocketed, causing financial hardship for many families.
It is alarming that a cup of garri, which was selling at ₦150 in April, is now trading at ₦250, an increase of 50%. Similarly, a five-liter bucket is sold for between ₦4,000 and ₦4,300, putting additional pressure on consumers looking to purchase these basic commodities.
The price rise is also evident for rice, a staple food for many Nigerian families. A 50kg bag of imported rice, which previously cost between ₦70,000 and ₦75,000, is now sold for between ₦95,000 and ₦100,000, depending on the brand. Similarly, a 50kg bag of local rice is now sold for between ₦80,000 and ₦85,000, further exacerbating the financial burden on consumers.
Sellers in local markets express their concern about this price increase, highlighting the negative impact on the population. Gladis Ugwu, who sells garri at New Market, highlights the need for government to take steps to ensure availability of basic food items at affordable prices. She emphasizes that securing agricultural land and limiting exports would help stabilize prices on the local market.
As the holiday season approaches, rising prices are of particular concern as many families struggle to meet their basic food needs. It is crucial for authorities to take urgent measures to mitigate the impact of this price spike and ensure that all residents can have access to adequate and affordable food.
In conclusion, the increase in food prices in Enugu raises legitimate concerns about access to nutritious food for the local population. It is imperative that measures are taken to stabilize prices and ensure food security for all people in the region.