With Muslims observing Ramadan and Christians marking Lent, conversations about economic activity continue across Nigeria.
In a series of interviews conducted by HipTV in Lagos, Nigerians shared mixed views about how the Ramadan and Lenten seasons have impacted market prices, their spending habits, and their business fortunes.
Concerns About Rising Market Prices
One resident said the fasting period has been difficult because of rising prices in the market. According to the respondent, the high cost of goods makes fasting more challenging for many people.
“I cannot wait for fasting to end, it affects the price of goods in the market. I can’t fast because of the increase in prices of a lot of things in the market.”
Some Businesses Experience Reduced Patronage
Another resident said the fasting season has not changed the price of goods. However, he posited that some businesses, especially those engaged in the sale of alcoholic beverages, may experience reduced patronage during the period.
“The price of things still remains the same. Only that those that are selling alcohol is a loss in their business, it is a time for us to have a deep repentance as Nigerians.”
Expectations of Lower Prices Unmet
One respondent said many people expected the fasting period to reduce prices, but market costs remain high.
“The price of everything is still high, nothing is down. We thought as we are doing the fasting everything will come down, everything is still high.”
Reduced Demand and Community Food Distribution
Another resident said reduced buying has led to lower demand in some areas. The respondent also mentioned free food distribution in communities.
“It has made the price of things decrease. A lot of people are not buying as they should. Another reason is that there are a lot of free distributions going on in the community.”
Some Businesses Unaffected
However, some residents say that the fasting season has had no effect on their businesses.
“The price of things, fasting has not affected the business.”
Another respondent also believes the economy remains unchanged despite the fasting period.
“The fasting period has not affected the economy, the economy is stagnant as it is.”
Mixed Public Opinions
Overall, the responses reflect mixed public opinions about the impact of fasting on Nigeria’s economy. While some residents say reduced buying and community food distributions are influencing market activity, others believe prices and business conditions remain unchanged during Ramadan and Lent.
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