food

Growing insecurity in key farming regions is driving a fresh surge in food prices across Nigeria, raising concerns over inflation and food access as the 2026 lean season approaches.

Latest data from the National Bureau of Statistics shows food inflation rose to 14.31% in March, up from 12.12% in February. The increase marks a reversal of the easing trend recorded in late 2025, with staple foods such as yam, cassava, and tomatoes experiencing notable price spikes.

In major agricultural zones across the North-Central and North-West, including states like Benue, Zamfara, and Niger, farming activities have been severely disrupted by banditry and communal clashes.

Large areas of farmland have been abandoned as farmers flee violence or struggle to access their fields. Some farmers report being forced to pay unofficial levies to armed groups to cultivate or harvest crops, adding to production costs and reducing output.

Even where harvests are successful, transporting food to urban centres remains a major challenge. Truck drivers moving produce across regions face delays, security risks, and multiple informal payments along major routes.

Rising fuel prices have further compounded the problem, increasing transportation costs and pushing up the final market price of food items in cities such as Lagos and Abuja.

International agencies, including the Food and Agriculture Organization, have warned of worsening food insecurity, particularly in conflict-affected states in the North-East. Millions of Nigerians are expected to face difficulties accessing sufficient food during the peak lean season between June and August.

The Federal Government has outlined measures aimed at stabilizing food production and supply. These include deploying security personnel to protect farming communities, investing in rural road infrastructure, and supporting farmers with inputs such as irrigation systems.

Despite signs of exchange rate stability, analysts say the impact of insecurity and logistics challenges continues to outweigh economic gains, leaving food prices elevated.

Market traders and consumers alike warn that until farmers can safely return to their land and supply chains are secured, the cost of basic food items will remain high, putting additional pressure on households nationwide.