By Hannah Tedunjaye
By December, the Lagos atmosphere changes its rhythm as roads become more congested, markets fuller and wallet thinner but a walk through major roads and markets this year shows that December 2025 is heavier than last year not just in traffic, but in the cost of living.
Last December ,traffic was bad but predictable. Rush hours stretched, but journeys took place. This year ,traffic has become almost permanent .From early morning to late evening, major roads and markets areas remain blocked.
Drivers blame it on increased commercial activities, roadside trading, bad roads and more vehicles on the road. For commuters, what used to be 20 to 30 minutes trip last year now takes over an hour. Transport fares have also quietly increased, adding another burden to daily expenses.
December Luxury Livestock prices show one of the sharpest increase. Vendors in major markets confirm that animals are far more expensive this year than last year December.
Last year , Chickens were sold for N12,000 to N15,000 but this year, it has increased to N25,000 to N30,000.Goats cost N35,000 to N70,000 but last year but this year, it’s N120,000 to N250,000.
A livestock seller, Mr Ibrahim explained that high feeding costs, transportation expenses and insecurity affecting farms have pushed prices up. Many families that buy livestocks for celebrations now settle for smaller options or skip it entirely.
Markets known for clothes and shoes are still crowded but buyers are more cautious. Last year buyers could bargain and still leave satisfied. This year, bargaining often ends in disappointment.
Vendors complained that imported goods are the hardest hit due to exchange rate issues and shipping costs. Many customers compare prices without buying ,while others downgrade their choices.
Ready made dresses were sold for N10,000 to N25,000. This year, they cost N50,000 and above.Shoes and sneakers which cost N15,000 to N20,000 last year now cost N25,000 and above.
Jewelry sellers report fewer buyers this December. Gold and fashion jewelry have become more expensive. Some buyers now choose smaller and lighter designs or artificial alternatives, prioritizing appearance over long term value .
For Gold, last year, the cost range was between N120,000 to N200,000.This year, it’s about N250,000 and above. Fashion jewelry which cost N3,000 to 5,000 have increased to about N8000 to N15,000.
A recent drop in the price of rice across major market has been influencing the cost of other food items, offering a small noticeable relief to consumers.
Market observations show that this reduction has started to affect other food items. Vendors say that as rice becomes cheaper, demand pressure of substitutes such as garri, yam flour, spaghetti and beans have reduced. As a result, prices of some of these items have either stabilised or dropped slightly.
However ,traders warn that the price drop is not yet consistent nationwide. Factors such as transportation, fuel prices and seasonal supply still affect food prices. Some sellers believe that if rice prices remain stable for a longer period ,the effect on other food will be more significant.
December remains festive in spirit, but financially, it has become more demanding.
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