Lagos food prices spike for maize and garri despite national inflation drop

Food prices in major Lagos markets shifted sharply in October 2026, with 31 staples increasing in cost compared to only 17 in September. The price reversal occurred even as Nigeria’s national food inflation rate declined month-on-month, highlighting a disconnect between national averages and local market realities.

Maize recorded the steepest rise among widely consumed staples, with a 50kg bag of both yellow and white varieties jumping from 40,000 naira in September to 55,000 naira in October. This 37.5% month-on-month increase was attributed to strong demand from poultry operators and feed millers, as well as farmers deliberately holding inventories.

While staples like maize, garri, onions, and beans became more expensive, other items saw price drops. Round-shaped tomatoes recorded the largest decline, driven by increased supplies from northern and central Nigeria and intense competition among sellers. Lagos recorded the highest food inflation in the country in September at 34.40% year-on-year, significantly higher than the national average.

Read the full story at Nairametrics.