Fuel Hike Sparks Sharp Rise In Food Prices Across Abuja
Fuel Price Surge Drives Market Inflation
A sharp increase in fuel prices has triggered a corresponding rise in the cost of food items, goods, and services across markets in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, and surrounding areas, a market survey has revealed.
Findings from multiple markets on Sunday showed that the spike in prices is largely linked to the rising pump price of petroleum products, itself driven by ongoing tensions in the Middle East and disruptions in global oil supply chains.
The ripple effects are now being felt across households and businesses, with many residents lamenting the growing difficulty of meeting basic needs.
Food Prices Triple in Major Markets
At the Orange Market along the Abuja-Keffi Road, widely regarded as a hub for bulk food purchases, prices of key staples have surged dramatically.
A large basket of tomatoes, previously sold between ₦9,000 and ₦10,000 in February, now sells for as high as ₦30,000 to ₦35,000. Similarly, a bag of onions that once cost between ₦15,000 and ₦25,000 is now priced between ₦40,000 and ₦45,000.
In Lugbe Market, the cost of sweet potatoes has doubled, while yam prices have climbed significantly, with five tubers now selling for up to ₦10,000. Beans have also recorded steep increases, with white beans rising to ₦1,600 per mudu.
Across Orozo, Karu, and Wuse markets, similar trends persist, with traders reporting sharp increases in the cost of pepper, onions, tomatoes, and other essential food items.
Although Garki Modern Market recorded slight fluctuations—some prices rising while others dipped marginally—the overall trend remains upward.
Transport, Fuel Costs Blamed
Traders and farmers attribute the price surge primarily to rising transportation costs driven by higher fuel prices.
Alhaji Jibrin Abdullahi, a yam trader in Nyanya, explained that the cost of transporting produce from Benue State to Abuja has nearly tripled.
“Transport fares have gone up drastically. That is the major reason prices are rising,” he said.
Farmers and middlemen now pass these costs directly to consumers, further inflating market prices.
Businesses Struggle with Power, Diesel Costs
Beyond food, service providers and small businesses are also grappling with increased operating costs.
Mr. Simon Adolo, a sachet water distributor, said his company now spends heavily on diesel due to unreliable electricity supply. As a result, the price of sachet water has risen from ₦300–₦350 to as high as ₦500 per bag.
Similarly, ice-block dealer Mrs. Esther Gabriel said her prices have jumped from ₦500 to ₦800 due to rising fuel expenses needed to power generators.
“Without stable electricity, we depend on diesel, and that is killing our business,” she said.
Bakers and other small-scale entrepreneurs also reported increased costs for raw materials and production, further driving up prices for consumers.
Residents Decry Rising Cost of Living
Residents across Abuja say the rising prices are placing unbearable pressure on household incomes.
Apo resident Agnes Joseph warned that even basic necessities like water are becoming unaffordable.
“The price keeps increasing, and distributors are already warning of more hikes. It is worrying,” she said.
Another resident, Rosemary Akor, recounted how the cost of a simple haircut for her children rose from ₦1,400 to ₦3,000 within weeks.
“This is no longer sustainable. Something urgent must be done,” she said.
Single mother Ifeoma Atuegwu said her standard of living continues to decline daily, calling for government action to stabilise transportation and production costs.
Calls for Urgent Government Intervention
Stakeholders across markets and communities are now calling on the Federal Government to intervene urgently.
They urged authorities to address fuel pricing, improve electricity supply, and support businesses to reduce operational costs.
Without swift action, traders warn that food inflation could worsen, further eroding purchasing power and deepening economic hardship for millions of Nigerians.
