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Garri Price In Nigeria Today?
As of August 2024, the price of garri in Nigeria has reached unprecedented levels, reflecting the challenges and complexities within the country's agricultural sector. Garri, a staple food made from processed cassava tubers, has always been a critical part of the Nigerian diet. However, the recent surge in its price has made it increasingly unaffordable for many households across the country.
In various markets, the price of a 50kg bag of garri currently ranges from ₦22,000 to ₦26,000, depending on the region and quality. This marks a significant increase compared to previous years when garri was considered one of the most affordable food items in Nigeria. The situation is even more alarming in certain areas like Jos, Plateau State, where a 100kg bag of garri is being sold for as high as ₦72,000.
Several factors contribute to this steep price increase. One major issue is the ongoing reduction in the volume of cassava production. As cassava is also used to produce other products like starch, chips, and flour, the competition for cassava tubers has intensified, leading to a shortfall in garri production. The annual national demand for garri is estimated at 1,000,000 tonnes, but only about 250,000 tonnes are supplied, creating a significant supply-demand gap.
Moreover, the traditional, labor-intensive methods of garri processing, which are still widely used, have not kept pace with modern technological advancements. Despite efforts by institutions like the Federal Institute of Industrial Research Oshodi (FIIRO) and the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) to introduce modern processing techniques, many producers continue to rely on manual methods. This inefficiency in production further exacerbates the cost.
The economic challenges in Nigeria, including high inflation rates, increased transportation costs, and the devaluation of the naira, have also played a role in the rising costs of garri. With these persistent issues, the price of garri may continue to rise, putting additional strain on Nigerian households who depend on this staple food.
In conclusion, the current state of garri prices in Nigeria highlights the broader issues facing the country's agricultural sector. The combination of reduced cassava production, outdated processing methods, and economic pressures has made garri less accessible to the average Nigerian. As efforts continue to modernize the production process and stabilize the economy, consumers will need to adapt to these new realities in their daily food choices.
