The season of Lent is approaching for Christians, a time of reflection and preparation for Easter. It’s a period marked by fasting and prayer, culminating in Ash Wednesday.
But Muslims have kicked off Ramadan, a month of fasting and spiritual renewal. Both faiths share a common thread of introspection and spiritual discipline during these times.
Both Ash Wednesday and Ramadan are periods of spiritual reflection and self-denial. Ash Wednesday, for Christians, marks the beginning of Lent, a 40-day period of fasting and repentance leading up to Easter.
During Lent, Christians often abstain from certain foods or activities, focusing on prayer and charitable works. Ramadan, for Muslims, is a month of fasting from dawn to sunset, abstaining from food, drink, and sexual relations. It is a time for introspection, prayer, and increased acts of charity.
Despite these known facts, the Nigerian market often times experiences a unique change. While some goods will likely face price increases due to seasonal scarcity, others may defy the trend and remain stable, driven by factors yet to be fully understood. This unexpected stability could lead to a surge in demand, prompting some sellers to stock up on these popular items.
However, a few opportunistic traders also capitalize on the increased demand by inflating prices, citing the added expense of acquiring goods during the peak season.
Food Items That May Be Expensive This Season
Foodstuffs: With the increased demand for specific foods for breaking the fast (iftar) during Ramadan and the traditional Lenten meals during Ash Wednesday, prices of staple foods like rice, beans, and flour rise. Presently these foods are expensive which makes it a challenging moment for fasting.
Protein source: The price of meats (cow and goat), eggs, fish and chicken often rise, as people seek protein sources during fasting
Beverages: During Ramadan, the demand for drinks like juices, water, and special Ramadan drinks increases, leading to potential price fluctuations.
Fruits: fresh fruit like watermelon, mangos, oranges and dried fruit like dates are in high demand this period, leading to increase in it prices particularly when it’s not their season.
Transportation: With increased travel to religious gatherings, mosques, or churches, the demand for transportation services, like taxis or public transport, may likely increase, leading to a hike in fares.
Clothing: Many people choose to wear new clothes for special religious occasions during Ramadan and Easter, increasing demand and potentially leading to higher prices.
Gifts: The tradition of exchanging gifts during Ramadan and Easter can contribute to higher prices for items like sweets, toys, perfume, calendars, prayer mat, or special gifts.
Event Services: Events like Ramadan lectures, Iftar gatherings, Homes and Eid celebrations create demand for catering, decorations, and entertainment services, leading to potential price increases.
Accomodations : During Ramadan, many Muslims travel to meet family and friends to perform Umrah (minor pilgrimage), leading to higher airfare and accommodation costs.
Energy Costs: With increased use of electricity and appliances during Ramadan (for evening prayers and gatherings) and during Easter celebrations, energy costs may increase.
It’s important to note that price fluctuations during these periods can vary depending on location, local market conditions, and individual consumer choices.
