Your phone buzzes. You check the screen. Gbam! Salary has entered. But before you can even smile, the calculation starts in your head. You’re wondering where your money will stretch further this month. Food is the biggest chunk of your monthly cost of living in Lagos, so knowing where to shop smart matters.
Every Lagos shopper faces the same dilemma: Do I face the mud and stress of Mile 12, or do I enjoy the AC at Shoprite? The Cost of Food Items in Mile 12 Market has always attracted families looking to save money, but with transport fares jumping up and down, is it still worth the stress?
We didn’t just Google these prices. I put on my old rubber slippers and waded through the muddy paths of Mile 12 this December so you don’t have to guess. Whether you’re learning to furnish a mini flat under ₦500k or just trying to feed your family smarter, knowing real market prices is power. This guide brings you the raw numbers, the bargaining battles, and the truth about Food inflation Nigeria—including the massive ₦60,000 gap between Old and New onions that is confusing many shoppers.
Mile 12 Market Price List: What Food Items Cost Right Now (December 2025)
Let’s get straight to the point. Mile 12 is the headquarters for fresh perishables in Lagos. If you are buying in bulk, this is where the trucks land from the North.
Here is the current price breakdown based on our December 22, 2025 market survey. Note that prices for items like Onions now depend heavily on whether you are buying “Old Stock” (drier, lasts longer) or “New Stock” (fresher, cheaper).
| Food Item | Quantity / Unit | Price Range (₦) |
|---|---|---|
| Tomatoes (Jos – Grade A) | Big Basket (Raffia) | ₦35,000 – ₦55,000 |
| Tomatoes (Yoruba/Ghana) | Big Basket (Raffia) | ₦13,000 – ₦25,000 |
| Pepper (Rodo) | Paint Bucket | ₦6,000 – ₦6,500 |
| Pepper (Rodo) Sack | Big Sack | ₦43,000 – ₦47,000 |
| Green Pepper | Big Sack | ₦40,000 – ₦45,000 |
| Onions (Old Stock) | Full Bag | ₦130,000 – ₦150,000 |
| Onions (New Stock) | Full Bag | ₦80,000 – ₦85,000 |
| Onions (Huge Bag) | 100kg Bag | ₦120,000 |
| Onions | Small Portion | ₦5,000 – ₦11,000 |
| Bawa / Bell Pepper | Portion | ₦2,000 – ₦5,000 |
| Tatashi | Big Bag | ₦70,000 |
| Tatashi | Basket | ₦50,000 |
| Tatashi | Portion | ₦2,000 |
| Yam | Per Tuber | ₦11,000 |
| Carrots | Per Bag | ₦70,000 |
| Cucumber | Per Bag | ₦12,000 |
| Coconuts (Ghana) | Bag of 120 | ₦87,000 |
| Coconut | Per Piece | ₦700 – ₦1,000 |
| Plantain | Bunch | ₦1,000 |
| Rice (Foreign/Local) | Paint Bucket | ₦45,000 |
| Egusi (Handpeeled) | Paint Bucket | ₦25,000 |
| Palm Oil | 25 Litres Keg | ₦67,000 |
| Groundnut Oil | 25 Litres Keg | ₦85,000 |
| Vegetable Oil | 10 Litres Keg | ₦31,000 |
| Crayfish | Paint Bucket | ₦11,000 – ₦25,000 |
| Stockfish | Per Piece | ₦8,000 – ₦15,000 |
| Snails (Jumbo) | Basket | ₦50,000 – ₦75,000 |
| Ginger | Paint Bucket | ₦10,000 |
| Turmeric | Paint Bucket | ₦4,000 |
| Garlic | Per Kg | ₦3,000 |
| Dry Pepper | Paint Bucket | ₦20,000 – ₦22,000 |
| Cameroon Pepper | Paint Bucket | ₦10,000 |
| Uziza Leaf | Bunch | ₦5,000 – ₦8,000 |
| Waterleaf | Bunch | ₦5,000 – ₦5,500 |
Old Onions vs New Onions: Why the Price Difference Matters
There is currently a ₦50,000+ difference between “Old” and “New” onions. Don’t let a vendor mix them for you without knowing the difference:
- Old Onions (₦130k – ₦150k): These are fully cured, have dry/papery skins, and are very firm.
- Best for: Bulk storage. Storing bulk onions properly requires smart kitchen organization for Nigerian cooking—especially during harmattan. You can buy a bag now and use it till February without spoilage.
- New Onions (₦80k – ₦85k): These are fresh from the farm, high in water content, and often have greener stems or softer necks.
- Best for: Immediate use (restaurants, parties). Warning: These will rot if stored for more than 2 weeks in a hot kitchen.
Field Note: While I was asking for prices, I watched a lady almost buy a bag of new onions thinking they were old stock until a nearby porter signaled her to stop. The seller just laughed and said, “Madam, na market we dey, shine your eye.” If you are buying a bag to share, ensure everyone agrees on the type.
Tomato Buying Tip: Jos vs. Ghana vs. Yoruba
Not all tomatoes are born equal. When you see the price variations (₦13k vs ₦55k), it’s often about the type:
- Jos Tomatoes (₦35,000 – ₦55,000): These are the gold standard. They are firmer, less watery, and better for storage or making stew that won’t sour quickly.
- Ghana/Yoruba Tomatoes (₦13,000 – ₦25,000): These are usually rounder and softer but sweeter. Great for immediate cooking, but they squash easily during transport.
Christmas 2025 Frozen Chicken Prices Across Lagos
Because it is “Detty December,” we know the protein is the most important part of the budget. Should you go to Kara Market/Mile 12 or just buy it at Ajah/Lekki?
| Livestock Item | Mile 12 / Kara Market Price | Ajah / Lekki Price |
|---|---|---|
| Frozen Chicken (10kg) | ₦45,000 | ₦65,000 |
| Live Chicken | ₦25,000+ | Higher |
| Goat (Medium) | ₦90,000 – ₦130,000 | Similar |
| Medium Cow | ₦600,000 – ₦900,000 | Similar |
Verdict: If you are buying Frozen Chicken in cartons, please drive to the Mile 12 cold rooms or huge distributors. You save a massive ₦20,000 per carton compared to Island prices. For live animals like Cows and Goats, the price difference isn’t as huge this year between markets, so consider the cost of transporting a live cow before heading to Kara.
Year-Over-Year Analysis: Dec 2024 vs. Dec 2025
Is Food inflation Nigeria actually getting worse, or is it just our imagination? We compared the data from last December to this month to show you the real inflation trend.
| Food Item | December 2024 Price | December 2025 Price | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tomatoes (50kg basket) | ₦35,000 | ₦30,000 | ↓ 14% (Cheaper) |
| Atarodo (50kg bag) | ₦68,000 | ₦90,000 | ↑ 32% (Higher) |
| Bell Pepper/Tatashe (50kg) | ₦120,000 | ₦110,000 | ↓ 8% (Cheaper) |
| Bawa/Chili (50kg) | ₦110,000 | ₦80,000 | ↓ 27% (Cheaper) |
| Groundnut Oil (25L) | ₦65,000 | ₦85,000 | ↑ 31% (Higher) |
| Vegetable Oil (10L) | ₦36,800 | ₦31,000 | ↓ 15.8% (Cheaper) |
| Onions (100kg bag) | ₦70,000 | ₦120,000 | ↑ 71% (Higher) |
Key Takeaway: It’s a mixed bag for oils this season. While Groundnut oil prices have risen, Vegetable oil prices have actually dropped by 15.8%, making it the budget-friendly choice for your holiday frying. However, Onions have skyrocketed (up 71%!), so spend wisely on bulbs but enjoy the cheaper fresh peppers like Bawa and Tatashe.
Why Food Prices Actually Dropped This December
You might be wondering why anything is cheaper in this economy. We reached out to the market authorities for clarification. Mr. Femi Odusanya, the spokesperson for the Mile 12 Model Market, explained that these slight price reductions were primarily due to “lower logistics costs rather than increased national output.”
This is a crucial insight into how transport costs dictate your stew budget. Last year, the fuel scarcity crisis meant truckers were paying a premium for black market fuel. While diesel prices remain high, the supply chain has stabilized slightly compared to the chaos of 2024. As one tomato trader told me, “Madam, diesel money to bring am from Zaria is still too much, but e better pass last year.” The drop in vegetable oil and tomato prices is a direct result of these logistics easing up just enough to pass some savings to you.
Cost of Food Items: Mile 12 Market vs. Shoprite Price Comparison
So what are you really paying for at Shoprite? The food, the AC, and the silence (no market women shouting “Customer come!”). We promised you a comparison, and here is the honest truth about how much that silence actually costs you.
Disclaimer: Shoprite prices vary by branch (Ikeja vs Lekki) and change weekly. These prices are verified estimates from December 2025 listings.
| Food Item | Mile 12 Market Price | Shoprite Price (Est.) | The Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tomatoes (Basket Equiv.) | ₦13,000 – ₦55,000 | ₦60,000+ (calc. from ₦1,200/kg) | Mile 12 (by far) |
| Rice (50kg Bag) | ₦70,000 – ₦90,000 | ₦72,000 – ₦115,000 | Tie (Brands vary) |
| Frozen Chicken (1kg) | ₦4,500 (Sold in 10kg Carton) | ₦5,200 – ₦6,300 | Mile 12 |
| Veg. Oil (3 Litres) | ₦9,300 (Sold in 10L/25L kegs) | ₦6,400 (Power Oil) | Shoprite (Surprise!) |
| Convenience | Low (Mud, Noise, Traffic) | High (AC, Parking, Trolley) | Shoprite |
The Real Math: If you need just 5 pieces of tomatoes for a quick omelet, go to the supermarket. But if you are cooking a pot of stew that needs to last your family two weeks, the Cost of Food Items in Mile 12 Market wins hands down.
Who should shop where?
- The Busy 9-5 Professional: If you close work at 6 PM, Mile 12 is closed or dangerous. Stick to the supermarket or local night markets like Oyingbo. However, if you batch-cook using a proper meal prep timetable for busy workers, one Mile 12 trip can feed you for an entire week.
- The Family of 5+: You have no business buying pepper by the kilogram in a supermarket. Schedule a monthly trip to Mile 12 or Ketu.
Which Food Items Are Cheapest in Nigerian Markets Right Now?
Based on our December 2025 market survey, there is some good news and some “wahala” news.
- The Good News (Pepper & Plantain): “Pepper don rest.” Right now, pepper is relatively affordable compared to earlier in the year. A paint bucket of Rodo has dropped to as low as ₦6,000 for smaller sizes, though bigger ‘Ose Nsukka’ types can still hit ₦15,000. Plantain has also dropped to ₦1,000 per bunch, which is a miracle considering it was double that price recently.
- The Bad News (Tomatoes): Tomato prices are still on the high side. One trader told me, “Madam, diesel money to bring am from Zaria is too much.” This transport cost is passed directly to you.
What Food Items Sell Fast in Nigerian Markets?
If you want to start a student side hustle, bulk-buying pepper and tomatoes at Mile 12 and reselling in smaller portions is a proven model. If you are just looking to know what runs out fast in your kitchen, these are the hot cakes:
- Rice: The Nigerian staple. No matter the price, we must eat rice.
- Palm Oil: You can’t make traditional soups without it.
- Garri: The ultimate “hold body” food. It remains the cheapest carbohydrate source.
- Instant Noodles: Fast food for the kids.
- Tomatoes & Pepper: Because is it really a Nigerian house if there is no stew in the freezer?
How Much Does Food Cost for a Family of 5 in Lagos?
So, you have ₦20,000 to cook soup for the weekend? Here is the raw truth of what that buys you right now. Based on December 2025 prices, here is your “Stew Budget.”
| Ingredient | Quantity | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh Tomatoes | 1/2 Basket or shared | ₦8,000 |
| Rodo (Scotch Bonnet) | 1 Portion | ₦2,000 |
| Bawa (Chili) | 1 Portion | ₦2,000 |
| Tatashi | 1 Portion | ₦2,000 |
| Onions | 1 Portion (New Stock) | ₦2,000 |
| Total Base Cost | Stew Base Only | ₦16,000 |
Note: This does not include protein (Meat/Fish) or Oil. This is just to get the pepper mix ready. No dulling, plan your budget well. Corps members trying to budget on NYSC allowance can save significantly by pooling resources to buy these ingredients in bulk from Mile 12.
What Food Items Will Increase in Price in 2025?
Predicting Nigerian prices is like predicting the weather (or checking FAO seasonal patterns), but we can look at patterns.
- Tomatoes: As we enter the deep dry season (January/February), fresh tomatoes usually become scarce and expensive because they need water to grow. Expect prices to climb.
- Imported Goods: Anything that relies on the dollar (like tinned tomatoes or foreign rice) will fluctuate with the FX rate.
- Transport-Heavy Items: Yams and onions coming from far North will see price hikes if fuel prices adjust again.
First-Timer’s Guide: How to Shop at Mile 12 Market
So, you’ve decided to brave the market? Good luck. Turn your Mile 12 trip into one of your stress-free weekend activities—leave early, buy in bulk, and spend the rest of Saturday relaxing. Here is your survival kit:
- Dress Code: Leave the white Air Force 1s at home. Wear rubber slippers or rain boots. The mud at Mile 12 respects nobody.
- Hold Cash: Transfers fail. Network is often terrible inside the market. Cash is King here.
- Gate 1 vs. The Bridge: Know your geography. Mile 12 is massive, sitting right on the Kosofe LGA corridor. The perishable food section is deep inside. The area closer to the road is usually more expensive.
- The “Alabaru” (Porter) Negotiation: Expect aggressive porters. When I visited last Tuesday, a wheelbarrow pusher demanded ₦500 just to cross the bridge with two bags. I offered ₦200, and we eventually settled at ₦300 after he complained that “rice don cost.” Don’t be afraid to haggle with them too.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lagos Food Prices
Q: How much is a bag of rice in Mile 12 market? A: As of December 2025, a paint bucket of rice is selling for around ₦45,000. Prices vary slightly depending on if it is foreign or local stone-free rice.
Q: Is Mile 12 cheaper than Shoprite? A: Yes, for bulk purchases. If you are buying in small quantities, the transport fare to Mile 12 might cancel out the savings. But for fresh produce in bulk, Mile 12 is 20-40% cheaper.
Q: Which is the cheapest food market in Lagos? A: Mile 12 is the king of perishables (Tomatoes/Pepper). Oyingbo is great for stockfish and crayfish. Otto market is excellent for bulk dry foods.
Q: What is the current price of a basket of tomatoes in Lagos? A: Between ₦13,000 and ₦55,000 depending on the size of the basket and the freshness of the tomatoes.
Disclaimer: These prices were collected during a market survey in December 2025. Prices in Nigerian markets change daily based on fuel scarcity, transport costs, and season.
Oladepo Babatunde (Prince Babatee Tunde) is a Computer Scientist, researcher, and professional content writer with a Higher National Diploma in Computer Science from Kwara State Polytechnic, Nigeria.
With a background in technology and a passion for clear communication, Babatunde specializes in creating thoroughly researched, reader-focused content on productivity, personal development, home living, and technology. Every article he writes is backed by extensive research and fact-checking to ensure readers receive accurate, actionable information.
As a freelance writer, he has helped brands and publications deliver content that educates, engages, and empowers their audiences. His mission at Vibena is simple: make complex topics easy to understand and help Nigerians live smarter, more productive lives.
