ABUJA — Residents and traders across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) are grappling with a severe surge in the price of tomatoes, with costs hitting record highs in recent weeks. A market survey conducted in major hubs, including Garki, Suleja, and Dutse markets, reveals that a large basket of tomatoes now sells for between ₦150,000 and ₦170,000 a staggering increase from the ₦85,000 ₦90,000 price point seen just weeks ago.

Drivers of the Crisis

Industry stakeholders and traders cite a combination of seasonal and logistical hurdles for the persistent price hikes:

  • Seasonal Scarcity & Weather: Experts from the Tomatoes Growers and Processors Association of Nigeria (TOPAN) have noted that intense heat in the North during the May/June period significantly reduced yields. Furthermore, recent flooding in key producing areas like Jos and Makurdi has damaged farms and disrupted harvest cycles.

  • Escalating Logistics: With the rising pump price of fuel, the cost of transporting produce from northern farms to Abuja has soared. Traders highlight that these "landed costs"—which include transport and transit fees—must be passed on to consumers to keep businesses afloat.

  • Post-Harvest Losses: A lack of adequate cold-storage infrastructure remains a critical bottleneck, leading to significant spoilage before produce even reaches the capital.

Economic Impact on Households

The price spike has drastically altered shopping habits. Consumers who previously bought tomatoes in bulk for weekly meal planning are now restricted to daily, small-quantity purchases. Many low-income families are increasingly opting for cheaper alternatives or substituting fresh tomatoes with pastes, tatashe, and pepper to manage their dwindling food budgets.

"Customers think we are ripping them off, but that isn't the case," explained Philomena Bassey, a trader at Garki New Market. "We buy from the farms, but by the time transport, handling, and spoilage are factored in, the price is inevitably high."

Call for Government Intervention

As the cost of living continues to rise, residents are calling on the federal and state governments to move beyond rhetoric. The public appeal focuses on:

  • Infrastructure Investment: Implementing sustainable cold-storage solutions to reduce post-harvest waste.

  • Agricultural Support: Providing incentives and security for farmers to enhance year-round production.

  • Logistics Stabilization: Addressing the high cost of transportation to lower the barriers between farm gates and urban markets.