The price of Nigeria’s beloved instant noodle brand, Indomie, has seen an unprecedented surge, reaching an alarming N18,000 per carton (120g super pack) in just two weeks. Previously pegged at N11,140, this disturbing 38.1% increase has sent shockwaves through markets in Wuse, Dutse, and Utako.
In a stark comparison, this new price demonstrates a staggering 67% escalation from the N6,000 per carton it cost just a year ago in February. A single pack of Indomie (Super pack) now demands N500, up from N350, while alternative noodle brands are priced at N450.
For an ordinary Nigerian earning the minimum wage of N30,000, acquiring a carton of noodles now incurs a hefty cost of N18,500. This concerning development comes amidst rising food inflation, which the National Bureau of Statistics reported at 35.42% in January this year.
The Food and Agricultural Organisation, FAO, the World Food Programme, WFP, and other entities had previously forewarned of an impending spike in staple food prices across Nigeria and adjacent West African nations. This surge in noodle prices adds to the existing economic burdens faced by Nigerians, leading to widespread discontent and protests in states like Niger, Kogi, and Oyo.
Despite the government’s pledge on February 14 to release 42,000 metric tonnes of grains and reduce staple food prices, the populace is yet to witness any tangible relief. As citizens eagerly await the promised interventions, the prevailing economic hardship under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration continues to fuel calls for urgent and concrete actions to alleviate the burden on the populace.
