The beloved African pear, popularly known as Ube, is becoming increasingly scarce across markets in Nigeria and it’s causing quite a stir online. Once a common seasonal delight enjoyed alongside roasted corn, Ube is now commanding higher prices and becoming harder to find. But what’s behind this sudden shortage?
A recent trend on social media has added fuel to the fire: viral videos show large quantities of Ube being packed and exported out of the country. These videos have left many Nigerians shocked, raising questions about why a local delicacy is now more accessible abroad than at home.
Several key factors contribute to the scarcity and price hike of Ube in Nigeria. First is the simple issue of supply and demand. As a highly favored fruit with a limited natural growing range, Ube supply often falls short, especially during peak consumption seasons. Its availability is also seasonal, meaning it only appears during certain times of the year, further tightening supply and raising prices.
Another significant issue is exportation. With the high exchange rate and value of foreign currencies, many traders find it more profitable to export Ube than to sell it locally. The trend of shipping Nigerian Ube to countries like the UK, U.S., and Canada has grown, leaving local consumers struggling to afford or even find the fruit in local markets.
The scarcity is also made worse by domestication challenges. Unlike other fruits, cultivating Ube on a large scale is still difficult due to limited knowledge of its seedling growth and germination process. This makes it harder to increase supply and reduce dependence on wild harvesting.
In a country where Ube is more than just a snack it’s a cultural staple its rising scarcity has sparked debate about food security, export regulation, and the preservation of local agriculture.
As conversations continue online and in local markets, one thing is clear: if something isn’t done to balance local supply and exports, Ube might soon become a rare luxury in the very land where it grows.