Lagos food prices: Egusi jumps 29.73% as major staples record wider declines in September

Lagos food prices fluctuated in September 2026, with staple items generally decreasing while a few key commodities saw notable increases. The Nairametrics market survey of 67 food staples across major Lagos markets, including Mushin, Daleko, Mile 12, and Oyingbo, found that 16 items increased in price in September, compared to 18 in August, while 36 items saw price declines, up from 27 in the previous month. Fifteen items remained unchanged, compared to 17 in August.

The mixed trend in food prices is attributed to improving harvest inflows, better supply conditions, and relatively stable transportation costs. Grains trader Atinuke in Mushin market noted that improved harvests from producing states helped increase supply for cereals, legumes, and root crops. Wholesaler Layo from Daleko market also mentioned increased consumer resistance.

The most significant price increase was for melon (egusi), whose average market price jumped from N370,000 in August to N480,000 in September, a 29.73% month-on-month rise and a staggering 118.18% increase compared to the same period last year. The price surge is attributed to the rising cost of producing and transporting the crop and insecurity in some producing areas.

Despite the notable price increases, most staples became cheaper in September. Fifteen commodities maintained the same price as in August, down from 17 in the previous month, indicating improving price stability. Items that remained unchanged included ogbono, Kote fish, dry onions, milk, and cocoa beverage. The September survey comes amid moderation in Nigeria's overall headline and food inflation, with Lagos experiencing higher inflation pressure in August.