Nigeria: Nigerians Turn to Roadside Food Vendors as Inflation Hits Food Prices
By Ahmad Hadizat Omayoza, Mamos Nigeria
In Nigeria, a country known for its vibrant culinary scene and love for dining out, a significant shift is underway. Rising food prices, driven by inflation and increased costs of goods and services, have made it difficult for many to afford meals. As a result, Nigerians are increasingly turning to roadside food vendors to fulfill their daily food needs.
In the past, many Nigerians enjoyed dining at restaurants, showcasing their affluence by patronizing expensive eateries. However, the economic downturn has made even basic meals a luxury for some. Sekinat Shodimu, a fashion designer, lamented the soaring prices of staple foods like rice and noodles, which are popular among children. She noted that the quantity of noodles has decreased despite the higher prices.
As a result, Sekinat and others like her have shifted their dining habits. Instead of eating at restaurants, they now frequent roadside food vendors, who offer more affordable options. For Sekinat, the cost of a plate of rice with two pieces of meat has increased from N1,000 to N1,500, making it challenging to save money. By purchasing food from roadside vendors, she can spend as little as N300 to N500 per meal, significantly reducing her daily expenses.
Jude Balogun, a trader, echoed Sekinat’s sentiments. He explained that he used to dine at eateries but switched to local restaurants when the prices became too high. Now, even the local restaurants have raised their prices, pushing him to seek cheaper alternatives. He now buys his meals from a woman who hawks food using a wheelbarrow, finding no difference in quality compared to restaurants.
The story is similar for Mrs. Romoke Fashina, who owns a local restaurant. She has seen a decline in patronage due to the escalating prices of food items. Mrs. Fashina attributes the price hikes to traders inflating the cost of goods and the high foreign exchange rate. Consequently, many people prefer to buy food from roadside vendors, where prices are lower.
Despite the challenges, roadside food vendors like Mrs. Kelechi Adams continue to provide affordable meals to Nigerians. She acknowledged the difficulties of running a food business, citing the daily increments in food prices. However, she emphasized that the low overhead costs of operating a roadside food stall allow her to offer cheaper meals to customers.
In conclusion, the rise in food prices in Nigeria has forced many to seek alternatives to traditional dining options. Roadside food vendors have become a lifeline for those looking to cut costs without compromising on their daily nutritional needs. This shift highlights the resilience and adaptability of Nigerians in the face of economic challenges.
