Onion prices in Lagos more than triple amid supply shortages

Onion prices in Lagos have risen by more than 200% amid tighter supplies, flooding in producing regions and higher logistics costs. A bag of onions is now selling for 150,000–250,000 naira ($113–189), depending on size and variety, compared with 50,000–70,000 naira in May.

Traders attribute the increase partly to lower supplies from northern Nigeria. Onion farms have been affected by flooding in Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara, Kano, Kaduna, Katsina and Adamawa states.

Higher transport costs are adding further pressure. The cost of moving one bag of onions to Lagos has risen to 30,000 naira, or around $23, excluding onward delivery within the city.

Prices have increased across different product categories. A small bag that cost 17,000–20,000 naira in March is now selling for 60,000–70,000 naira. Traders also point to seasonal production patterns and higher fuel costs as additional factors.

Consumers in Lagos are reducing onion purchases in response to the sharp price increase. Traders also report storage challenges with new-crop onions, which are more prone to spoilage, prompting some sellers to continue marketing old-crop stocks.

Tags: prices, Nigeria, onion