Soaring rice prices threaten Christmas celebrations for Nigerian families

Rice, a staple for Christmas celebrations in Nigeria, has become a luxury this year. Soaring food prices have made the traditional dish of jollof rice and chicken increasingly out of reach for many families, who are now carefully reconsidering their plans for the upcoming holiday season.

To understand the cause, it’s important to note that Nigeria has been grappling with rising rice prices since former President Muhammadu Buhari closed the country’s land borders in 2019, aiming to boost local food production.

When President Bola Tinubu assumed office in May 2023, one of the significant challenges his administration inherited was inflation, which only worsened after the removal of fuel subsidies and the decision to float the naira currency.

As a result, the price of a 50kg bag of rice surged from just above ₦20,000 to ₦70,000.

One year into Tinubu’s presidency, Nigeria’s food inflation rate reached a staggering 40.66%. By October, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) revealed that the price of 1kg of local rice had climbed to ₦1,944.64, making it one of the country’s most expensive staples.

In a bid to alleviate the situation, President Tinubu announced a 150-day duty-free importation of rice and other essential food items in July. However, despite these efforts, rice prices remain high, and the festive season is bringing additional price hikes.

The Cost of Rice This Christmas
Currently, the price of a 50kg bag of rice ranges between ₦90,000 and ₦100,000. Aisha Giwa, a rice vendor at the Oyingbo market in Lagos, states that foreign rice costs between ₦90,000 and ₦95,000, while local brands like Mama Gold, Royal Stallion, Big Bull, Mama’s Choice, and Pretty Lady range between ₦80,000 and ₦90,000.

In Surulere’s Aguda market, foreign rice prices are even steeper, ranging from ₦95,000 to ₦107,000. According to Tobi, a vendor in the market, the price difference often depends on whether the rice is long grain or short grain, with long grain generally costing more, though high-quality short grains can be equally expensive.

Tobi noted that the high cost of food is now more visible than ever in the market. “Before, people would buy multiple bags of rice to share with family and friends for Christmas. They’d purchase 10 bags, rebag them, and distribute them in smaller portions. This year, that’s hardly happening. It shows how tough things are for people right now,” Tobi shared.

How Inflation is Affecting Family Celebrations
As inflation continues to tighten its grip on Nigerians, many middle-class families are being forced to make hard choices ahead of the festive season.

Ayoola David, who typically sends a bag of rice to his parents for Christmas celebrations with extended family, is finding it difficult to maintain the tradition due to skyrocketing rice prices.

“I would usually send a full bag for the family to share during the celebrations, but with how expensive it’s become, I’m considering only sending half a bag. Even that, I’m looking for the most affordable option,” David explained.

For Oluwatobi Oluwatoyin’s family, the rising cost of rice has made it impossible to stick to their usual Christmas budget. “It’s affecting my budget so much that I’m cutting back on many things. Now, I’m considering buying a paint bucket of rice and skipping other essentials,” Oluwatoyin said.

Alani Shotayo, like David, has also had to adjust his Christmas plans. “Normally, I buy a 50kg bag of rice to share with my mother and sister, but with the rising cost, I’ll likely settle for a 25kg bag. It won’t be enough to feed everyone, but it’s the best I can do,” Shotayo said.

No Celebrations for Some Families
For some, like Femi Toyin, there will be no holiday celebration this year due to the inflated prices. “I bought a bag of rice when it was ₦90,000+, and that’s all we’re using. Things are really tough now, and I don’t think there will be any festivities for us this year,” Toyin said.

As the cost of food items, especially rice, continues to soar, many Nigerian families find themselves compromising on Christmas traditions. It’s clear that this year’s holiday spirit will be defined more by gratitude for small mercies than the elaborate feasting that once symbolized the season.

For many, Christmas 2024 will serve as a stark reminder of how inflation has reshaped their budgets, leaving them with little choice but to forgo the holiday celebrations they once cherished.