10 Foods That Doubles in Price Over the Past Years

The cost of living has risen dramatically, with food prices being particularly hard hit. Over the past year, staple foods have seen significant increases in prices due to a variety of factors including the depreciation of the naira, ongoing conflicts in food-producing regions, and high transportation costs. These price hikes affect everyone, from the farmers who grow these foods to the consumers who rely on them daily.

According to the latest Food Price Watch for March by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), certain foods have skyrocketed by more than 100% in just one year.  These stark increases in food prices not only reflect the economic challenges but also pose serious questions about food security and affordability.

Here are the top ten food items that have experienced these steep increases, revealing the financial challenges that lie on the dinner tables across the nation.

Broken Rice (Ofada)

Starting our countdown, Ofada rice, a beloved staple, has witnessed the steepest rise. From March 2023 to March 2024, the average price per kilogram surged from N584.95 to N1338.97. This astonishing 160.83% increase underscores the growing expense of enjoying this traditional food.

Plantain (Unripe)

Following closely is unripe plantain, with a price jump of 154.66% over the past year. March 2023 saw it priced at N366.44 per kilogram, which escalated to N858.99 by March 2024. This spike is felt by many who depend on plantains for their nutritious value.

Rice (Local, Sold Loose)

Local loose rice also saw a significant increase, climbing 152.93% in price from N530.08 to N1,222.97 per kilogram within the same period. This rise highlights the challenges facing rice consumers in affording this essential diet component.

Sweet Potato

Sweet potatoes, known for their health benefits, are not spared from price hikes. The cost per kilogram increased by 147.69%, from N278.36 in March 2023 to N672.83 in March 2024.

Yam Tuber

Yam, another critical food, saw its price per kilogram go up by 141.25%, from N443.03 to N1009.56. This marks a significant impact on households that rely on yam as a primary source of carbohydrates.

Rice (Medium Grained)

Medium-grained rice experienced a 140.68% price increase over the last year. The price per kilogram jumped from N597.5 in March 2023 to N1361.48 in March 2024, putting additional strain on families’ grocery budgets.

Plantain (Ripe)

Ripe plantains have also become more expensive, with a price rise of 136.58% from N400.43 per kilogram in March 2023 to N846.5 in March 2024. This increase affects those who use plantains as a staple sweet or savory dish.

Irish Potatoes

The humble Irish potato has not escaped the trend, with its price per kilogram increasing by 125.19%, from N557.06 to N1,130.63. This staple food’s price rise is a concern for many who rely on it for a substantial part of their diet.

Rice (Agric, Sold Loose)

Loose agric rice has seen a 124.83% increase, from N613.39 per kilogram in March 2023 to N1,274.72 in March 2024. This significant rise reflects the broader trend affecting all rice varieties.

Maize (Grain, Sold Loose)

Maize, essential for both human consumption and as livestock feed, rounds out our list with a 123.03% increase in price, from N339.79 to N729.45 per kilogram.