Recent reports confirm that ShopRite stores in Ibadan and Ilorin have shut down, while those in Lagos and Abuja are experiencing severely empty shelves. ShopRite’s operations in Nigeria have significantly declined, with confirmed shutdowns in Ibadan and Ilorin. In Ibadan, the Cocoa Mall outlet in Dugbe closed temporarily by December 2024, citing issues like limited parking and low foot traffic, while the Ring Road branch has been reported with multiple empty shelves, fueling perceptions of a broader shutdown.

Similarly, in Ilorin, the Palms Mall store on Fate Road has ceased operations, with reports as recent as May 2025 describing locked sections and empty aisles. These closures stem from ongoing economic challenges, including high inflation and supply chain disruptions, which have strained the chain since its 2021 acquisition by Retail Supermarkets Nigeria Limited.In Lagos and Abuja, ShopRite stores remain open but are struggling with severely depleted stock. Outlets like Ikeja City Mall in Lagos and Wuse in Abuja are described as having starkly empty shelves, with minimal groceries and imported goods. Shoppers note a sharp decline from the chain’s once-bustling days, driven by port delays, forex issues, and a shift to local suppliers that has failed to stabilize inventory.

As of May 2025, some Abuja branches, such as in the Central Business District, appear nearly deserted. While ShopRite’s official website lists these stores as operational, the on-the-ground reality suggests a retail chain in distress, with local competitors