Some residents in Lagos have raised concerns over the high cost of tomatoes, saying they have turned to cheaper, local alternatives to cope with the current economic situation.
In interviews with journalists on Tuesday, several residents expressed frustration at the continuous rise in the price of tomatoes, a key ingredient in many Nigerian meals.
A resident of the Amuwo area of Lagos, Mrs Olachi Iroha, said she had recently begun using palm kernel stew, commonly known as ofe akwu, as an alternative to tomato-based stew due to the soaring prices.
“Tomatoes are actually expensive now, so if the costs keep rising, we will switch to the alternative,” she said.
She explained that she had bought a small paint bucket of tomatoes for ₦8,000 after much pleading, and that such prices are no longer sustainable for many households.
“If the situation continues like this, we will put the purchase of tomatoes on hold,” she said.
“I will go on to use palm kernel stew popularly known as ‘ofe akwu’, if I cannot afford tomatoes when next I want to make a pot of stew. There is nothing we can do about the situation, we will just buy what we can afford,” she added.
The rising price of tomatoes is part of broader food inflation affecting staple goods across Nigeria. The agricultural supply chain has been impacted by transportation costs, seasonal shortages, and in some cases, insecurity in major tomato-producing states.
Farmers have repeatedly called for better government support to stabilise food production and reduce post-harvest losses.
Palm kernel stew, made from the extract of palm nuts, is a traditional delicacy in many parts of southern Nigeria and has become a go-to substitute for families unable to afford fresh tomatoes.
Agricultural experts have noted that such shifts in household cooking practices highlight the need for a more diverse and resilient food system.
They suggest that encouraging local food alternatives could ease pressure on high-demand crops and help families better manage rising costs.
For now, residents like Mrs Iroha say they will continue to adapt with whatever is available and affordable in the markets.
