As many Nigerians continue to face high living costs, fresh market reports are bringing a wave of relief for households in the Northwest region. Recent checks across major markets in Sokoto, Kebbi, Katsina, Zamfara, and surrounding states show that prices of staple foods — including rice, beans, maize, and sorghum have dropped significantly in 2025.
This trend comes as good news for families, traders, and small businesses who have struggled to keep up with food inflation in recent years.
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What Are the New Prices?
Market surveys reveal that the average cost of a 50kg bag of rice, which had soared as high as ₦100,000 in late 2024, now sells for as low as ₦52,000 in some areas, depending on brand and quality. Beans, maize, and other grains have also seen notable declines.
Below is a summary of current staple prices in the Northwest region:
| Food Item | Unit | Current Price (₦) |
|---|---|---|
| Rice | 50kg bag | ₦52,000 – ₦75,000 |
| Beans | 50kg bag | ₦75,000 – ₦85,000 |
| Maize | 50kg bag | ₦58,000 – ₦62,000 |
| Sorghum / Millet | 50kg bag | Similar to maize |
| Rice (retail) | Per kg | ₦1,040 – ₦1,500 |
| Beans (retail) | Per kg | ₦1,500 – ₦1,700 |
| Maize (retail) | Per kg | ₦1,160 – ₦1,240 |
Why Are Prices Dropping?
According to local traders and farmers, the recent drop is due to better local harvests, improved supply chains, and more stable exchange rates which affect the cost of imported brands. Kebbi State, for instance, has recorded increased rice production thanks to expanded irrigation schemes and support for farmers.
However, experts warn that the gains are still fragile. Challenges such as localised droughts, insecurity in farming communities, and high transportation costs could disrupt supply and push prices up again if not properly managed.
Impact on Local Families
For many families and food vendors, these lower prices mean they can stretch their earnings further, feed more people, and plan their budgets with more certainty. Small businesses like roadside food sellers and market food stalls are also optimistic that their profit margins will improve as staple costs ease.
Local traders in markets like Dandume in Katsina and major rice hubs in Kebbi say buyers are already rushing to take advantage of the price drop — but they also encourage residents to buy wisely and store food where possible.
The Bigger Picture
Nigeria’s food inflation remains one of the highest in sub-Saharan Africa. Experts believe consistent investment in irrigation, storage, rural roads, and security will be key to keeping prices stable and ensuring food is affordable for every household.
As the next planting season begins, farmers across the Northwest are hoping for favourable weather and more government support to maintain these gains and push food prices even lower.
