By MC Oliver Nyikyaa De Busy Brain

A survey conducted on May 1, 2026, at Aliade Market in Benue State shows fluctuating prices across major food items. While some staples recorded noticeable declines, others remained elevated, reflecting ongoing supply and cost pressures.

Prices of major food commodities at Aliade Market in Benue State recorded mixed movements on Friday, May 1, 2026, highlighting continued instability in local food markets.

Findings from the market survey indicate that groundnuts remained relatively expensive, with premium-quality bags selling between ₦87,000 and ₦90,000. Beniseed (sesame) also recorded an upward movement, reaching about ₦140,000 per bag, while a basin measure was priced at approximately ₦47,000.

However, several staple items showed price declines. Maize dropped from ₦50,000 to ₦40,000 per bag, while soybeans fell from ₦100,000 to between ₦80,000 and ₦85,000 per bag.

Cassava-based products also became more affordable. A bag of akpu (cassava flakes) reportedly decreased from ₦2,000 to ₦1,500, while cassava chips dropped sharply from ₦10,000 to ₦6,000 per bag. Garri was sold at about ₦25,000 per bag.

Other staples followed similar trends. Guinea corn declined to ₦45,000 per bag, while rice paddy sold for around ₦40,000 per bag. Melon (egusi) prices dropped to ₦95,000 per bag, and yam flour was sold between ₦25,000 and ₦30,000 per bag.

Yam prices varied widely, ranging from ₦100,000 to ₦200,000 per 100 tubers, depending on size and quality.

Meanwhile, smaller produce items reflected moderate pricing, with rubber-sized cashew nuts selling at about ₦4,000 and a bag of oranges priced at ₦7,000.

Traders, according to market sources, attributed the fluctuating prices to supply challenges, transportation costs, and seasonal factors. They noted that the trend may persist in the coming weeks.

The development reflects broader patterns observed in local markets across Nigeria, where food prices continue to shift due to production cycles, logistics costs, and market demand.