Unlike previous years, when tomato and pepper prices typically climbed during the fasting period, Zuntu pointed to two key reasons for the expected stability: a strong harvest season and the timing of Ramadan itself. He recalled that last year’s farming season had been challenging, with low crop prices and high production costs squeezing farmers’ profits. However, this year’s improved yields have created a surplus, which is likely to keep prices in check.
Zuntu elaborated on the relationship between Ramadan and vegetable prices. During the fasting period, many Muslims reduce their daytime meals, leading to lower overall food consumption. This shift often results in decreased demand for certain produce, including tomatoes. Additionally, this year’s Ramadan falls earlier in the year, coinciding with the peak harvest season in northern Nigeria. In past years, Ramadan typically began in April, a time when supplies were dwindling after the main harvest period. But with the fasting month starting in February and ending in March, markets will still be stocked with fresh produce, further preventing price hikes.
The market dynamics of supply and demand play a crucial role in determining prices. Zuntu emphasized that when there is an abundance of tomatoes, prices naturally decline. He noted that many farmers in northern states had shifted their focus to vegetable cultivation last year after grains and other staples became less profitable. This shift led to higher tomato yields, despite challenges such as the Tuta absoluta pest, which often damages crops.
Currently, a 50-kilogram basket of tomatoes in northern Nigeria sells for between ₦7,000 and ₦10,000, depending on quality and variety. Just a few weeks ago, the same quantity was available for as little as ₦5,000. However, transportation costs significantly affect retail prices in other regions, where the same basket can sell for ₦18,000 to ₦20,000. Zuntu acknowledged the efforts of the national tomato farmers’ association in advocating for government support to ease the financial strain on vegetable growers. He also called on the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security to assist farmers in the upcoming 2026 planting season, particularly by providing affordable farm inputs like seeds and fertilizers.
The combination of a strong harvest, favorable timing, and reduced demand during Ramadan suggests that consumers will not face the usual price spikes this year. This situation offers some relief to households, especially those preparing for the fasting period. Farmers, meanwhile, hope for continued government intervention to sustain stable production and pricing in future seasons.
