Nigeria sees tomato and food prices surge as supply dries up and logistics costs rise

Tomato prices in Nigeria have more than tripled after the northern harvest season ended, with a 50 kg basket now selling for between N115,000 and N125,000 (US$72‑78), up from N35,000‑N40,000 a month earlier. Producers cite depleted harvests in key northern areas and higher transport costs—about N2 million (US$1,250) per trailer load—as major drivers of the price spike.

The All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN) in Lagos attributes the broader rise in food costs to middlemen hoarding goods ahead of the upcoming Ileya Sallah festival, as well as soaring logistics expenses. AFAN also points to global fertilizer supply disruptions linked to the United States‑Iran‑Israel conflict, which have pushed fertilizer prices higher and increased production costs for farmers. The association urges government action to curb middle‑men practices and alleviate transport and input costs to protect consumers and maintain food security.