The price of corn in Enugu has increased by 50 per cent, according to a survey conducted by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday.
The rising cost has made both boiled and roasted corn unaffordable for many families and corn lovers in the state.
The survey indicated that prices may drop in the coming months when most farmers begin harvesting, leading to a temporary increase in supply and a subsequent reduction in price.
Farmers and sellers who spoke to NAN attributed the price hike to irregular rainfall caused by climate change. Others pointed to the rising cost of labour and market goods.
Miss Amarachi Eze, a corn seller, explained that the seven pieces of corn she used to buy for N1,000 in 2024 now cost N2,000. She sells each piece between N400 and N500, depending on size.
“If you sell all seven at N500, you make N1,500. At N400, your gain is N800. I buy directly from farmers, but I still spend on transport, charcoal, and packaging. A small nylon of charcoal alone costs N500 now,” she said.
Another seller, known as Mama Ejima, noted that the price would soon drop as more farmers begin to harvest.
“I bought a small bag of corn with about 80 pieces for N25,500 this year. The same bag cost N13,000 last year,” she said. She added that she no longer sells corn for N200, with prices now ranging from N300 to N500 per piece.
Farmer John Oroke blamed climate change and erratic rainfall, saying corn requires consistent rain to thrive. He warned that applying fertilizer without rain can destroy crops.
Emmanuel Okafor, another farmer, said the cost of labour was high and that heat from the sun damaged his crops. He also reported part of his farm being destroyed by herders and their cattle.
“I’m calling on the government to support Enugu farmers with irrigation for year-round corn farming and to address conflicts between farmers and herders,” he said.
A buyer, Mrs Ogechukwu Nweke, expressed frustration over the high cost of living.
“I feel bad about how expensive things are now, including corn. But what can we do? We still have to buy. I appeal to the government to support farmers so they can produce more,” she said.
