Ginger prices rise in Lagos, traders blame insecurity

Traders and consumers in Lagos are lamenting a sharp rise in ginger prices, with the popular spice becoming increasingly unaffordable. This development is attributed to a combination of insecurity in major producing communities, dwindling supplies, and escalating transportation costs.

Ginger, widely used in Nigerian homes for cooking, beverages, and traditional remedies, is primarily produced in Kaduna, Nasarawa, Niger, and Plateau States. However, traders report a significant decline in supplies reaching Lagos markets in recent months, leading to steep price increases. Data from the National Bureau of Statistics indicates Nigeria’s ginger exports dropped by 74% in the first nine months of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. Industry stakeholders link this decline partly to disease outbreaks affecting farms in key producing states.

“

Information from suppliers indicates that many farmers can no longer access their farms because of security concerns. Some farmers are unable to harvest their crops, while others are reluctant to plant. This has reduced the volume of ginger coming into the market and contributed to the scarcity we are witnessing.

Mr. Ademola Oduyemi, Public Relations Officer of Oyingbo Market, stated that insecurity in farming communities has disrupted cultivation and harvesting. "Information from suppliers indicates that many farmers can no longer access their farms because of security concerns," he said. "Some farmers are unable to harvest their crops, while others are reluctant to plant. This has reduced the volume of ginger coming into the market and contributed to the scarcity we are witnessing."

The shortage has pushed prices to unprecedented levels. A paint bucket of ginger now sells for between N40,000 and N46,000, with half a bucket costing between N22,500 and N23,000. Individual pieces, purchased by retail buyers unable to afford larger quantities, sell for about N500 each. Rising transport costs and growing demand further compound the supply challenge. Mrs. Florence Akinfolubi, another ginger trader, noted that reduced supplies and increased transportation costs from the North to Lagos are directly reflected in market prices.

“

We receive far less ginger than before. Whenever supply drops, prices inevitably rise. Transportation costs have also increased considerably. Moving produce from the North to Lagos is more expensive, and that reflects in market prices.