By Erewunmi Peace

In a welcome development for households and traders nationwide, the price of beans — a staple food in many Nigerian homes — has plummeted significantly, following a record-breaking harvest in the first quarter of 2025.

Just a few months ago, the price of a 100kg bag of beans hovered around a staggering ₦210,000 to ₦240,000, driving concern over food affordability and inflation. However, traders and farmers now report that the same bag sells for between ₦80,000 and ₦120,000, depending on the market location and variety.

Why the Drop?

According to the Cowpea and Beans Farmers, Processors, and Marketers Association of Nigeria (C&BFPMAN), the sharp decline is largely attributed to a bumper harvest, which has led to surplus supply in major agricultural belts like Kano, Kaduna, Zamfara, and Benue.

Farmers in these regions reported improved yields due to:

Better access to fertilizers and inputs,

Reduced pest infestations,

Improved security across farming communities,

And increased government support for smallholder farmers.

Relief for Consumers

For many Nigerians, this is a welcome break from the escalating cost of living. “Last year, we could barely afford to buy beans for school feeding programs. Now we can stock up and even resell in bulk,” said Mrs. Amina Musa, a trader in Mile 12 market, Lagos.

Traders Confirm Price Shift

At major markets across the country — from Gombe to Onitsha — traders confirmed that prices have stabilized. In Gombe, a bag of white beans is now ₦90,000, while in Lagos, honey beans range between ₦110,000 and ₦120,000.

“The price drop is real, and it’s helping us stay in business,” said Uche Nwosu, a foodstuff merchant in Onitsha Main Market.

What’s Next?

Experts caution that while the price drop is significant, sustaining it will require:

Continued government investment in agriculture,

Support for storage and transportation infrastructure,

And monitoring to prevent hoarding or artificial scarcity.

Summary

Old Price (2024): ₦210,000 – ₦240,000 per 100kg bag

New Price (2025): ₦80,000 – ₦120,000 per 100kg bag

Main Cause: Bumper harvest, better security, and pest control

Impact: Relief for consumers, renewed confidence among traders