Nigeria, July 6 -- Traders and consumers, who spoke separately with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday, attributed the trend to limited supply, rising demand, exchange rate pressures and distribution challenges.

NAN reports that stockfish, a key ingredient in many Nigerian soups, especially among Igbo households, is imported mainly from Iceland and Norway.

Nigeria remains the world's largest importer of Norwegian stockfish, with imports worth millions of dollars annually to meet strong local demand for its distinctive flavour and texture.

Traders said the product has become increasingly scarce in recent months, leading to sharp price increases across Lagos markets.

A wholesale dealer at Oyingbo Foodstuff Market, Mr Udoka Umea...