Escalating Food Prices in Kaduna, Katsina, and Kano
A severe scarcity of bread, a basic staple in Nigeria, is causing crisis and distress in the northern states of Kaduna, Katsina, and Kano. Comparable to petrol and precious metals, this scarcity has made bread scarce and significantly driven up prices.
Impact on Local Communities
Residents are finding it increasingly hard to afford bread, turning to alternatives such as noodles, millet porridge, and bean cakes. The price of bread has risen by 20 to 40 percent, sparking widespread concern among shop owners and consumers who are calling for immediate action to address this issue.
Underlying Causes of the Shortage
Local bakers have halted production since July 1st due to the scarcity and soaring costs of essential ingredients like wheat flour, sugar, and oil. “The cost of a 50kg bag of flour has jumped from N53,000 to as much as N70,000,” a baker from Kaduna explained, emphasizing the dire economic pressures facing the industry.
Consequences for Small Businesses
The shortage has severely impacted small businesses, especially those that rely on morning and evening sales of bread and tea. Many have been unable to operate due to the lack of bread supply. Haidar Basiru, a local tea and bread seller, mentioned he could only secure 30 loaves instead of his usual 100, drastically affecting his business.
Residents’ Struggles and Adaptations
In Katsina, the price for a loaf has doubled, affecting all bread sizes and further straining the budgets of local families. Abdullahi Muhammad from Kaduna shared his disappointment at being unable to purchase bread for breakfast, resorting to spaghetti for his children.
Broader Implications and Calls for Solutions
The situation reflects broader economic challenges in Nigeria’s food supply chain, exacerbated by fluctuating commodity prices and market instability. Stakeholders are urging the government and relevant bodies to intervene, hoping for a swift resolution to restore bread availability and stabilize prices.
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