Rising fuel prices and fluctuating food costs are dampening market activity in Lagos as traders and consumers prepare for the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations.
At major markets such as Oyingbo and Surulere, traders say patronage has remained low despite seasonal availability of fresh produce.
Many sellers attribute the slowdown to increased transportation and logistics costs driven by fuel price hikes, which have significantly affected the prices of food items.
At Oyingbo Market, egusi traders reported that prices remain high, limiting bulk purchases. A derica of hand-peeled egusi sells for about ₦3,000, while machine-processed varieties go for around ₦1,500
A paint bucket of egusi, depending on quality, ranges between ₦8,500 and ₦10,000 according to traders.
Sellers noted that customers now prefer to buy smaller quantities due to financial constraints, a shift from previous festive periods when bulk buying was common.
Similarly, ogbono prices remain elevated, with paint buckets selling between ₦25,000 and ₦49,000, depending on size and quality.
Traders explained that rising transportation costs, combined with supply challenges and strong demand during festive seasons, continue to drive prices upward.
In Surulere market, including Lawanson, traders reported that although prices of tomatoes and peppers have dropped due to fresh harvests, customer turnout remains weak.
A paint bucket of tomatoes now sells between ₦2,750 and ₦7,000 while pepper prices range from ₦5,000 to ₦7,500
Despite the reduction compared to previous years, traders say consumers are still reluctant to spend due to the overall high cost of living.
At Idi-Araba Market onion sellers also reported slow sales, even as prices have become relatively more affordable.
According to traders, many buyers now purchase food items in small quantities, prioritising daily needs over bulk shopping.
Residents in Lagos echoed similar concerns, saying rising transport fares and general living expenses have forced them to cut back on spending.
Some consumers noted that the usual festive atmosphere associated with Eid-el-Fitr is largely absent this year, as economic pressures continue to shape buying behaviour.
