Rice Farmers Predict Further Price Drop as Lagos Government Pegs Bag at ₦57,000 Ahead of Christmas

Lagos State reduces rice price to #57,000 as Farmers Predict further drop ahead of Christmas.

 As the yuletide season approaches, rice farmers and major stakeholders across Lagos State are expressing optimism that the price of rice will drop even further in the coming weeks. This renewed hope follows the recent decision of Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to officially reduce the price of Lagos Rice from ₦64,000 to ₦57,000 per 50 kg bag. The announcement, which has already begun generating excitement among consumers and farmers, comes at a time when Nigerians have been battling soaring food prices caused by inflation, transportation costs, and limited agricultural output. For many households preparing for Christmas celebrations, this slash in price is a welcome relief. Stakeholders shared their views in separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), praising the governor’s intervention and predicting that competition within the market will force prices even lower before the festive season fully kicks in.

The Vice Chairman of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Southwest and Lagos State Chapter, Mr. Sakin Agbayewa, described the price slash as a strategic and timely decision that will benefit both consumers and local farmers. According to Agbayewa, pegging the price of Lagos Rice at ₦57,000 is not just a reduction; it is a move that is likely to reshape the rice market, boost competition, and ultimately drive down prices.

“The Lagos State Government pegging the price of a bag of rice at ₦57,000 is a good development. And hopefully, with this competitive price, we believe that in one or two weeks, the price of rice will further drop,” he said.

Agbayewa explained that while a 50 kg bag of foreign rice currently sells between ₦52,000 and ₦56,000, the price difference depends largely on location and transportation costs. Rice sourced closer to the border is slightly cheaper, while prices at major urban markets are higher.
However, he emphasized that Lagos Rice offers better value when quality and freshness are considered.

Why Lagos Rice May Be a Better Option for Consumers
One of the strongest points raised by Agbayewa is the quality difference between fresh, homegrown Lagos rice and many imported brands in the Nigerian market.
He revealed that:

1. Some imported rice stocks have been stored for 3 to 5 years.
2. In some cases, they may even be close to expiry.
3. The long storage affects nutritional value, taste, and safety.

In contrast, Lagos Rice, processed locally and distributed within a much shorter supply chain, retains its freshness and nutrients.
Agbayewa stated:

“If you are looking at price and quality, Lagos Rice at ₦57,000 is a good buy. When you buy Lagos Rice, you are looking at food safety, nutritional value, and everything it has to offer at that price.”

He added that Lagos Rice passes through strict local production processes, from farming to milling, packaging, and distribution, ensuring that what gets to consumers is both fresh and safe.

Rice Farmers Association Commends Government’s Proactive Policies
Also speaking with NAN, the Chairman of the Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria (RIFAN), Lagos State Chapter, Mr. Raphael Hunsa, applauded the state government for what he called a “people-centered decision.” Hunsa noted that food affordability has been a major concern this year due to inflationary pressures. For him, the governor’s decision shows responsiveness to the challenges facing Lagosians.

“The government is always on top in terms of policy decisions that affect the people. And Governor Sanwo-Olu dropping the price of rice is a great move,” Hunsa said.

He stressed that when production is low, demand naturally outweighs supply, pushing prices up. By reducing the price to ₦57,000, the Lagos State Government has provided immediate relief to households ahead of Christmas.

More Support for Farmers Needed to Sustain Price Stability
Both Agbayewa and Hunsa pointed out that while the price slash is commendable, more structured support for rice farmers is necessary if the state wants to maintain a stable and affordable rice supply throughout the year.
According to RIFAN Chairman, Mr. Hunsa:

“We urge the government to continue to support rice farmers to increase our production. If more farmers are empowered to produce all year round, the price of rice and other staples will continue to drop.”

He emphasized the importance of:

• All-year irrigation support
• Access to quality seedlings
• Subsidized fertilizer
• Improved mechanization
• Government-backed off-take programs

With these supports in place, Hunsa believes that Nigeria can drastically reduce its dependence on imported rice and strengthen food security.

Yuletide Celebrations Expected to Benefit From Price Reduction
With Christmas fast approaching, the reduction in rice prices is a timely boost for families preparing for festivities. Rice remains one of the most consumed food items during celebrations in Nigeria, making affordability crucial.
Mr. Hunsa expressed optimism that

“This Christmas is now at our door, and everyone will celebrate well with this drop in price.”

The prospect of an additional price drop over the next two weeks, as predicted by farmers, has given many households renewed hope.

Economic Impact of the Lagos Rice Price Slash
Experts believe the price cut will have several positive ripple effects across the state and beyond, including:
1. Increased Market Competition
By selling high-quality rice at ₦57,000, Lagos Rice may push importers and distributors of foreign rice to also reduce their prices.

2. Higher Sales Volume
Lower prices attract more customers, potentially clearing old stock faster and benefiting local producers.

3. Boost for Local Agriculture
As demand for Lagos-produced rice increases, more farmers will be encouraged to expand their farms.

4. Reduction in Food Inflation
Even a temporary price cut in a commodity as widely consumed as rice can have a meaningful impact on inflation indicators.
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Conclusion: A Step in the Right Direction for Food Security
Governor Sanwo-Olu’s decision to reduce the price of Lagos Rice to ₦57,000 per 50 kg bag has been widely commended by farmers and consumers alike. With predictions of even lower prices in the coming weeks, the initiative has rekindled hope among households struggling with high food costs.
However, experts insist that sustained investment in local rice production is the only long-term solution. As more farmers gain access to government support and modern farming tools, Nigeria can gradually achieve food stability and reduce reliance on imported staples. For now, Lagosians are looking forward to a more affordable and joyful Christmas celebration, thanks to this timely intervention.

By Primelineinfo