PUNCH
The recent surge in the prices of beans and Agege bread, a cherished staple food for many low-income households in Lagos State, has left many vulnerable residents struggling to afford the once-affordable meal.
PUNCH Healthwise gathered that the sharp price hike turned a common delicacy into a luxury many could not afford, forcing difficult decisions on families across the city.
Some residents in Lagos who spoke with our correspondent lamented that the soaring prices of beans and Agege bread had disrupted their ability to maintain their usual diet.
They noted that what was previously a reliable and nutritious meal for them was no longer affordable, forcing them to seek less affordable alternatives or to cut back on other essential needs.
Beans, rich in protein and dietary fibre, have long been a primary source of nutrition for many Nigerians, especially in low-income communities.
Paired with Agege bread, a soft, stretchy loaf named after the Lagos suburb where it originated, the combination forms a filling and affordable meal that has sustained generations.
For decades, beans and Agege bread have been staples, providing sustenance and comfort to countless families in Lagos.
PUNCH Healthwise, however, discovered that the consistent price hikes have pushed these essential foods beyond the reach of many, raising concerns about the long-term impact on nutrition and public health.
Some of the Lagosians who described the combination of beans and Agege bread as a cultural phenomenon lamented that many families struggle to adapt, finding it increasingly challenging to balance their budgets while trying to keep up with the rising expenses of basic food items.
For Mrs. Taiwo Ayanfowora, her family had to cut back on beans and Agege bread because of the daily increment in prices.
Ayanfowora, a mother of three told our correspondent that a derica of beans of N500 now sells for N2,300.
She lamented that with her husband’s income stagnant, the family had to prioritise their spending, leading to significant cuts in their food consumption.
The mother of three expressed concern about the health implications, especially for her children, who are no longer receiving adequate protein.
She noted that despite trying to find alternatives or buying smaller quantities, the high cost remains a significant burden.
Ayanfowora said attempts to find alternatives have proven futile because other protein sources are either equally expensive or out of reach.
While stressing that these substitutes are no match for the nourishing combination of beans and Agege bread, she revealed that her family now eats the combination only once in a while.
“My husband’s income has not increased, and we have to prioritise our spending. We’ve had to cut back on beans and Agege bread, and it is affecting our nutrition. My children always told me they want to eat bread and beans, but the price is out of reach.
“I have tried alternative sources, but they are not as affordable. I have even considered buying beans in smaller quantities, but it is still expensive.
“We all know how important beans are for children that are just growing up, I am worried about the health implications for my family. We are not eating as balanced a diet as we used to because of the current economic reality
“Beans and Agege bread were our go-to affordable options, and now they are out of reach,” she expressed.
A student, Tunji Uthman who claimed he was living on a tight budget, lamented that the price hikes have turned what was once a daily meal into an uncommon luxury.
Uthman noted that he has considered various alternatives, but they all come at a price he cannot afford.
He stated, “I used to buy beans and Agege bread every day, but now I can only afford it once a week.
“I have tried to find alternative sources of protein, but they are not affordable. I have even considered skipping meals, but I know that is not healthy.
“This is not just about me, many of my fellow students are facing the same challenges. We are not eating as healthy as we used to, and it is going to catch up with us eventually.
“I have heard some people say we should rely on our parents for support, but my parents are struggling too. They can’t afford to send me money every month.
“We need affordable food options for students like me. I am calling on the government to do something about the prices. We can’t keep living like this.”
Also, Rildwan Mujaideen told PUNCH Healthwise that he has been forced to cut back on his food expenses, which has had a noticeable impact on his health.
Mujaideen lamented that adjusting to the new reality has been difficult.
He expressed concern that despite his efforts, the price hikes have made it nearly impossible for him to maintain his previous standard of living.
He added, “I have had to cut back on my food expenses, and it is affecting my health. I am not eating as balanced a diet as I used to, and I can feel the difference.
“I have tried to adjust to the new prices, but it is hard. I have even considered moving out of Lagos to a place where food is cheaper, but I have my family here.
“I am not sure what the government is doing about the prices, but it needs to do something. We can’t keep living like this.
“I remember when beans and Agege bread were N50 and N20 respectively. Now you will need to buy like N600 bread with beans of N500. This is outrageous.”
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