Sachet water known to the average Nigerian as “pure water” has seen a serious rise in its price as makers of this commodity react to the rising cost of production.

This increase has forced many Nigerians who cannot afford the once cheap product to opt instead for borehole or well water as a more economical alternative.

Recall that the Association of Table Waters Producers of Nigeria stated that the price of a sachet of pure water could surge to N100 each.

“This is due to the rising costs of production materials, compounded by the high price of diesel, the unreliability of power supply, and overall increased production expenses.

As the cost of living continues to increase, affecting everything from food staples like rice and beans to petrol, the increase in water prices adds another layer of hardship for the average Nigerian household.

The association’s President, Clementina Ativie speaking on the increase said, “Pure water is sold for N50 now, and it is even going up to N100 per one. At our own end, there’s nothing we can do. The cost of production is high.

As of last year December, we were buying materials (nylon) for N1,100 per kg. The 6kg of nylon is now N3,600/N3,700. The cost of treatment is also high. The increase in prices of these materials comes at three times in one week. It is also difficult for us to increase the price of water.

“If ordinary Nigerians can’t afford pure water, I don’t know where we are going. Every water producer is funding the pure water factory from personal pockets or borrowed money.

“Many banks don’t give pure water producers loans. We want Nigerians to bear with us. We don’t want Nigerians to buy water at more than N20 per sachet. The cost of production including the price of diesel has affected so many things.”

As at Monday, 4th March, 2024, a bag of pure sells for at least N400, while bottle water (75 cl) sells for N200.

However, places like hotels, eateries, gardens and other locations have varying prices.