Olusegun Adeyemo
As the cost of food continues to soar across the country, Nigerians from different states have expressed varied opinions on how the federal government and stakeholders can help bring food prices down.
In Ondo State, a businessman, Mr. Aribo Odimayo, told The Journal Nigeria that the root of the problem lies in the high cost of agricultural inputs and labour.
“If the cost of labour and other agricultural inputs remain high, the price of agricultural products can never come down,” he said. “Farmers are exposed to almost all the dangers in this world. Compared to international standards, we’re still buying and selling at reduced prices. Nigeria’s problem is the minimum wage. If they can set the salary structure between ₦200,000 to ₦5 million, everything will be alright,” he added.
From Lagos, Mr. Duru Chigozie identified extortion on highways as a major contributor to high food prices. He cited multiple agencies and informal groups demanding money from transporters.
“The amount taken to move goods in this country is the real problem. From police to touts, customs, and even agbero unions — everyone wants a share. The drivers pay heavily, and the final consumers suffer for it,” he lamented.
In Ibadan, Oyo State, Mrs. Vito Jean argued that transportation costs shouldn’t be blamed solely on the federal government.
“The federal government is not in charge of transportation. States and local actors play a role too,” she noted.
Another Ibadan resident, Mr. Taiwo Ayo Ilori, suggested that lowering crude oil prices for local refineries could offer relief.
“If crude oil prices are reduced for local refineries, and the government properly monitors fuel prices while ensuring strong security to prevent smuggling to neighbouring countries, it will ease the cost of transporting food,” Ilori said.
In Edo State, Mr. Jim Osadiaye proposed more structural reforms. He believes that clearing the roads of extortion and placing farmlands under government control could help.
“Food subsidy should include clearing extortion by police, touts, agberoism, and civil defence from the roads. The government should own all farmlands so they can sell food at lower prices and distribute fresh organic food to the poorest communities,” he suggested.
As inflation continues to affect food security nationwide, these voices reflect the complexity of the challenge and the wide range of opinions on how it can be solved. Whether through policy reforms, enforcement, or economic restructuring, Nigerians are eager for solutions that make basic food affordable again.