Nigerians Turn to Local, Cheaper Food Options Amid High Inflation

Subheading: As food prices soar, many Nigerians are embracing traditional, affordable alternatives to rice, gari, and other staples.

Image: A pyramid of cocoa yams on display at a market in Abuja, Nigeria.

In the face of rising food prices and inflation, many Nigerians are turning to local, cheaper food options to make ends meet. The cost of living in Nigeria has become increasingly unbearable, with the national average cost of a healthy diet increasing by 19.2 per cent to N1,241 per adult per day in June 2024.

As a result, many Nigerians are opting for traditional, affordable alternatives to rice, gari, and other staples. Cocoa yams, for instance, have become a popular substitute for rice and gari, thanks to their rich, nutty flavor and versatility in the kitchen. Vendors in bustling markets, such as Wuse and Utako in Abuja, now proudly display pyramids of cocoa yams, which are not only cheaper but also more filling and nutritious.

Another indigenous food gaining traction is soybean cake, also known as wara. Made from fermented soybeans, wara is a protein-rich food that has become a staple in many Nigerian households. Civil servants, like John Opaluwah, have reported that wara has become a staple in their households, offering a delicious and pocket-friendly alternative to meat.

The shift towards less expensive vegetables has also become a common trend, as prices for some ingredients have become prohibitive. Vegetables like spinach and bell peppers are now being used as alternatives to tomatoes, which have seen their prices triple in recent years.

The impact of food inflation on Nigerians is severe, with many struggling to afford a balanced diet. A mother of four, Ojone Adams, has resorted to parched corn and beans as regular meals for her family, as the cost of rice, yam, and other staples has become unaffordable.

Experts note that the shift towards local, cheaper food options highlights the ingenuity and adaptability of Nigerian consumers. However, they also underscore the ongoing struggle against food inflation and the urgent need for sustainable solutions to address the root causes of food inflation.

The government and various non-governmental organizations have been making efforts to improve agricultural practices and increase food production. Initiatives such as the National Agricultural Technology and Innovation Plan aim to enhance productivity and ensure food security. However, experts argue that much work remains to be done to stabilize food prices and ensure that all Nigerians have access to affordable, nutritious food.

As Nigerians continue to adapt to their new reality, the focus must remain on creating a sustainable and equitable food system that can withstand future challenges.