A severe shortage of tomatoes and pepper has led to a significant price hike in Jos, Plateau State, leaving consumers in distress.
Despite being one of the major producers of these commodities, the state is experiencing a severe scarcity, forcing residents to seek alternative ingredients or reduce consumption.
The price of a big basket of tomatoes has risen to between N80,000 and N100,000, while the smallest basket sells for N26,000. A bag of pepper now costs N60,000, a significant increase from the previous price of N16,000.
Stakeholders attribute the price hike to the removal of fuel subsidy, which has affected the entire agricultural value chain. Farmers are struggling with high costs, and consumers are bearing the brunt.
To address the issue, stakeholders suggest the government reconsider fuel subsidy removal and invest in irrigation infrastructure and mechanization to reduce farmers’ reliance on diesel.
In the short term, measures such as soft loans, grants, and tax reductions on agricultural inputs could provide relief.
The situation has forced buyers to seek direct purchases from farmers, disrupting the traditional supply chain and affecting sellers’ income.
The scarcity has also impacted restaurants and food vendors, who are struggling to maintain their menus.
