The price of beans and cowpea in Nigeria has dropped drastically in 2025, with a 100kg bag now selling for as low as N80,000, less than half of the N240,000 peak seen in 2024.
According to Mr. Kabir Shuaibu, President of the Cowpea and Beans Farmers, Processors and Marketers Association of Nigeria (C&BFPMAN), the sharp decline is due to an exceptional harvest season driven by favorable weather and expanded farming efforts.
“Currently, a bag of beans in the North costs between N80,000 and N120,000, depending on the variety. Last year, the same bag went for N210,000 to N240,000,” Shuaibu told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN). “This is a big relief for both farmers and consumers.”
He explained that the major reason for the price drop is an unprecedented yield, with some farmers harvesting up to 10 times more than in previous years. The improvement is linked to better weather, expanded planting, and intercropping strategies—planting beans alongside other crops like corn.
Last year’s high prices were driven by poor harvests, floods, and pest infestations. In contrast, this year has seen high output and lower losses, resulting in a surplus and reduced market prices.
Wholesalers confirm the trend. Mrs. Esther Umeileka, Managing Director of Fresh2Home Ltd., cited reduced pest damage and favorable government policies as additional factors contributing to the improved supply.
At Lagos’ Oyingbo Market, trader Mrs. Zainab Ahmed said that consumer demand is rebounding as beans have become affordable again. “A paint bucket now sells for N6,000 to N7,000, compared to N13,000 to N14,000 last year,” she noted.
Consumers across Lagos are expressing relief. Mrs. Tonia Sanwo said that a small derica cup of beans, once selling for N2,000 to N2,500, now goes for between N800 and N1,000. Civil servant Mrs. Favour Braye added that improved security has allowed more farmers to return to their fields, boosting output and stabilizing supply.
With better harvests, improved access to farmland, and growing consumer confidence, the price of beans in Nigeria has finally become manageable for households once again.
