The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) has released its report for November, revealing a significant surge in the average prices of various food items. According to the report, the cost of essential commodities experienced notable increases, impacting consumers across the country.
Among the highlighted increases, the average price of 1kg of Brown Beans rose by 6.18% from N790.01 in October 2023 to N838.85 in November 2023. On a year-on-year basis, the item marked a substantial surge of 44.99%, escalating from N578.55 in November 2022.
Similarly, the average price of 1kg of Onion Bulb saw a remarkable year-on-year increase of 60.62%, climbing from N425.71 in November 2022 to N683.78 in November 2023. Additionally, the average price of 1kg of Tomato surged by 66.69% year-on-year and 12.24% month-on-month, reaching N758.65 in November 2023 from N675.91 in October 2023.
Lagos State recorded the highest average price of rice, with 1kg of local rice sold at N1,122.42, while Kebbi State reported the lowest at N688.00.
In terms of meat prices, Anambra State registered the highest average price of 1kg of Boneless Beef at N3,850.47, with Yobe State reporting the lowest at N2,533.33.
Further regional analysis indicated that the South-West had the highest average price of 1kg of local rice at N956.28, closely followed by the South-South at N932.47. The North-East recorded the lowest average price at N776.12.
The South-East and South-West reported the highest average prices for 1kg of Boneless Beef at N3,643.65 and N3,290.11, respectively, while the North-East reported the lowest at N2,632.22.
For 1kg of Brown Beans (sold loose), Imo State recorded the highest average price at N1,109.75, and Jigawa recorded the lowest at N575.00.
The South-East and South-South had the highest average prices for 1kg of Onion Bulb at N817.11 and N775.34, respectively, while the North-East reported the lowest at N529.95.
Finally, the South-South led in the average price of 1kg of Tomato at N1,307.66, followed by the South-West at N1,047.18. The North-West reported the lowest average price at N434.80.
The NBS report highlights the challenges faced by consumers as food prices continue to rise, prompting concerns about affordability and access to essential goods.