Koko Maxwella 
LAGOS, Nigeria — Persistent fluctuations in Nigeria’s food prices are driven by deep-rooted structural challenges in agriculture, experts say, despite ongoing government interventions.
Agricultural specialists point to poor implementation of policies, rising logistics costs and weak distribution systems as key drivers of price instability.
“Implementation remains the major issue. Farmers still struggle with transportation, storage, and post-harvest losses,” said agricultural economist, Adewale Ogunbiyi on Sunday.
He explains that even when production improves, inefficiencies in moving goods to markets create supply imbalances that push prices higher.
Insecurity in farming communities is also worsening the situation.
“When farmers cannot access their land consistently, supply becomes unstable, and that instability reflects in food prices,” Ogunbiyi adds.
Food systems analyst Kikelomo Bello says rising input costs are compounding the problem.
“Fertiliser, seeds, and labour have become more expensive… farmers adjust prices to recover their expenses,” she says.
Experts call for a broader strategy beyond input subsidies, urging investment in storage infrastructure, rural roads and market access.
Commodity trader Emeka Okafor highlights speculative practices and seasonal shortages as additional factors.
“Some traders hoard produce expecting higher prices… stronger market monitoring can help reduce artificial scarcity,” he says.
Analysts also stress the need for accurate agricultural data to improve planning and reduce volatility.
They urge the Federal Government to strengthen coordination among agencies to ensure interventions translate into stable food prices nationwide.
About the Author
Oluwafunbi Bello 
Hussaini Ibrahim 