NOA WARNS AGAINST HOARDING AND ARTIFICIAL SCARCITY OF STAPLE FOODS DURING RAMADAN, LENT
Abuja, Nigeria – February 19, 2026
The Director General of the (NOA), , has issued a strong advisory to traders and market operators across the country against the hoarding and artificial inflation of prices of essential food items during the holy periods of and .
Mallam Issa-Onilu expressed concern over reports indicating that certain marketers are deliberately withholding staple commodities commonly consumed during fasting periods, thereby creating artificial scarcity and driving up prices to the detriment of ordinary Nigerians.
According to the Director General, such practices are not only economically disruptive but morally indefensible, particularly during sacred seasons that emphasize compassion, sacrifice, generosity, and social responsibility.
“This is a period that calls for reflection, charity, and empathy for the less privileged. It is deeply troubling that some individuals would exploit this spiritual moment for excessive profit-making at the expense of vulnerable citizens,” the DG stated.
He noted that the deliberate hoarding of food items undermines national efforts at economic stability, fuels inflation, and places avoidable hardship on families already navigating challenging economic realities.
The NOA reiterated that responsible market conduct is both a patriotic duty and a moral obligation. The Agency emphasized that fairness, transparency, and moderation in pricing align with national values and religious teachings observed during fasting seasons.
The Director General further urged trade associations, market unions, and commodity groups to exercise internal regulatory discipline by discouraging exploitative behavior among their members. He called for collaboration with relevant regulatory authorities to ensure compliance with ethical market standards and consumer protection principles.
Mallam Issa-Onilu reaffirmed the Agency’s commitment to sustained sensitisation campaigns across all states and local government areas, aimed at promoting value reorientation, economic responsibility, and national cohesion.
He appealed to marketers to view Ramadan and Lent as opportunities to demonstrate integrity and social conscience rather than as windows for opportunistic gain.
The National Orientation Agency, he assured, will continue to monitor developments and engage stakeholders nationwide to safeguard the welfare of citizens and uphold the values that strengthen Nigeria’s national fabric.
