Tomato traders in Anambra State have attributed the current scarcity and rising prices of tomatoes to persistent rainfall and flooding in major tomato-producing regions of Nigeria.
A survey conducted by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) across Eke-Awka, Ose, Onitsha, and Nkpor markets revealed that the price of a basket of tomatoes has jumped from N65,000–N70,000 to N100,000–N150,000.
Mr. Uchenna Amanambu, a wholesaler at Eke-Awka market, explained that heavy rains in Jos and Makurdi, key tomato-producing areas, have negatively impacted farming activities and reduced output. Flooded transportation routes have further disrupted the delivery of tomatoes to southern markets, worsening the shortage.
Mrs. Ifeoma Uzonna, another wholesaler, said deliveries from northern states have become irregular. “Trucks no longer arrive weekly with large quantities. Scarcity has pushed prices up; what sold for N70,000 a few months ago now costs over N120,000,” she said.
Mr. Chinedu Nwafor added that transportation costs have risen due to damaged roads, influencing market prices. “Traders are adjusting to supply and logistics challenges, not making excessive profits,” he noted.
At Ose Market, Mrs. Celestina Ezeokafor described the shortage as one of the most severe this year. Many customers now buy smaller quantities due to high prices, substituting fresh tomatoes with tatashe, peppers, and tomato paste to reduce costs.
Retailer Mr. Emeka Obi said consumers are buying only what they need for immediate use, reflecting a cautious approach to spending amid scarcity.
In Nkpor Market, traders reported that the situation has affected both sales volume and consumer purchasing power. Mrs. Ngozi Chukwu, known as Mama Chidera, advised households to supplement tomatoes with other vegetables while awaiting improved supply.
Mr. Sunday Ezeani expressed optimism that the situation would improve as rainfall subsides and farmers harvest from irrigated farms, expecting prices to gradually normalize.
