In the midst of Nigeria’s economic hardships, traders in Abuja are grappling with reduced customer traffic, attributing this downturn to the surge in food prices and overall cost of living. Speaking to AgroNigeria, traders openly discussed the challenging economic landscape, particularly the sharp increase in prices of essential food items.
Veteran trader Peace Gideon voiced her apprehension regarding the dwindling patronage due to exorbitant food prices. “The current situation in the country is very tough,” she lamented. “As a trader, I find it increasingly difficult to make regular sales because customers are unable to afford purchases as frequently, given the steep rise in food prices. For instance, a unit of rice now costs #2,500. Everything that used to be reasonably priced has become unaffordable. We’re feeling extremely overwhelmed.”
Sunday David, another trader, echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the significant surge in the price of Garri, a staple food in Nigeria. “The situation unfolding in our country is dire,” he exclaimed. “The Garri I sell has become incredibly expensive compared to the past when a bag could be purchased for just #7,000. These are undoubtedly challenging times for both us traders and the customers who rely on us.”
These accounts underscore the pressing need for comprehensive measures to alleviate the burden on ordinary citizens and stabilize the economy.
