Lagos: The Cowpea and Beans Farmers, Processors and Marketers Association of Nigeria (C and BFPMAN) has highlighted high harvest yields among others as the reasons for the drop in the price of the produce in the country.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the President of C and BFPMAN and some traders disclosed the reasons for the price drop in interviews on Sunday in Lagos. The report indicates that as of the second and third quarters of 2024, the price of beans increased astronomically to between N210,000 and N240,000 for 100kg as against N90,000 it was being sold in 2023. However, from the first quarter of 2025, the produce witnessed a steady decline in its price, with a bag of 100kg currently selling between N80,000 and N120,000 depending on the species.
Mr. Kabir Shuaibu, C and BFPMAN President, explained that the increased harvest from cultivation is the reason for the drop in price. He noted that the harvest from last year yielded over 10 times what was usually harvested in past years, which led to the increased supply and subsequent price drop. He remarked that the price hike last year was due to poor harvests caused by flooding, but recent harvests have tripled, resulting in the price crash.
Shuaibu also mentioned that farmers ensured surplus harvests by planting beans and cowpeas alongside corn, leading to an abundant yield. A bag of beans up North now costs between N80,000 and N120,000, a significant drop from last year’s prices. He expressed hope for continued increased harvests, benefiting both farmers and consumers.
A wholesaler, Mrs. Esther Umeileka, Managing Director of Fresh2Home Ltd., attributed the price drop to increased yield and less infestation compared to the previous year. She noted that last year’s insect/weevil attack affected produce, but this year, high yields and adjustments to government policies have stabilized prices.
Mrs. Zainab Ahmed, a trader at Oyingbo Market, observed increased patronage following the price drop. She highlighted that customers struggled with last year’s high prices but can now afford beans for their families, with prices for a paint bucket reduced to N6,000-N7,000 from N13,000-N14,000.
Consumer Mrs. Tonia Sanwo expressed joy at the price drop, as beans are an essential staple in her home. She noted that the price for a small derica cup has decreased from N2,000-N2,500 last year to N800-N1,000, depending on the species.
Mrs. Favour Braye, a civil servant, confirmed the price drop and attributed it to improved access to farms, resulting in increased yields. She highlighted that the previous year’s poor yields were due to farm insecurity, but with improved access, prices have dropped, making beans more affordable for Nigerian households.
