As the festive season reaches its peak, correspondents from The Merit Newspaper toured major markets in Lagos Island on Monday, December 30, 2024, to observe the state of commercial activities and the prices of goods. The visit revealed a mix of bustling shopping activity and economic hardship, as Lagosians gear up for the New Year celebrations.
The correspondents, starting their journey from the Mainland, crossed the Third Mainland Bridge and made their first stop at Sura Market through the Adeniji junction. At Sura, the atmosphere was lively, with shoppers haggling over prices despite the rising cost of household goods and domestic wares.
“Prices have gone up significantly compared to last year,” said one of the correspondents. “A bag of rice, which sold for N36,000 last December, now costs over N110,000. Yet, people are still shopping, prioritizing essentials for the festive period.”
From Sura, the team moved to Sandgross Market and noted that shopping activities were proceeding smoothly, with minimal congestion from pedestrians and motorists. However, the streets of Obalende and Sandgross leading to Upper Campus junction were packed with shoppers and traders.
The team also visited Tinubu Square, opposite the Central Bank of Nigeria, Lagos. Parking their vehicle, the correspondents split into two groups. One group covered Saudi Market, located beside the Lagos Central Mosque and opposite Oluwole Market, before heading to Idumota. The second group explored Marina Junction, Balogun Market, and Apongbon Market.
A correspondent who visited Balogun Market observed: “Despite the high cost of goods, Lagosians are undeterred. The market is teeming with people. Items like clothing and footwear are in high demand as families prepare for New Year celebrations.”
The survey revealed that while the major access routes, including the Third Mainland Bridge and Eko Bridge, were relatively free of traffic, the streets within Lagos Island were a different story. Heavy gridlocks characterized every corner of the island, with traders and shoppers vying for space.
A trader in Idumota, Mrs. Bose Akinsemoni, expressed her frustration: “The streets are so congested. It’s been difficult to move goods from one place to another. But business is booming; we’re seeing a lot of customers despite the challenges.”
Shoppers lamented the high cost of goods and the scarcity of cash, a recurring issue throughout 2024. “It’s not easy,” said Mr. Fawaz Akinwale, a shopper at Apongbon Market. “Prices are outrageous, and many of us are struggling to make ends meet. But it’s the New Year—people want to celebrate no matter the cost.”
Despite these challenges, the festive spirit was palpable. From foodstuff and household items to clothing and accessories, Lagosians are determined to usher in the New Year with optimism and celebration.
The Merit Newspaper correspondents commented on their report by commending the resilience of Lagosians. “It’s a testament to their enduring spirit,” one correspondent noted. “Even in tough economic times, they find ways to celebrate and support their families during the festive season.”
