Garri, a staple food widely consumed in Nigeria, has reached an unprecedented price peak in Jos, the capital of Plateau State,Daily Trust reports.
Formerly known for its affordability, garri is now being sold at N1,100 per measure and N72,000 per 100kg bag, marking a significant increase in cost according to individuals interviewed by Daily Trust during a market visit. These sources noted that the current price is the highest recorded in decades.
Vendors at the Katako market offered insights into the reasons behind this historic surge in garri prices. Hassan Maigari, a seasoned seller, attributed the hike to several factors, including heightened demand for garri as a more economical alternative to pricier food options. Maigari, with three decades of experience in the trade, expressed astonishment at the unprecedented price surge, citing a recent sale of a 100kg bag at N72,000.
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Echoing Maigari’s sentiments, Abdullahi Ibrahim, another garri seller, highlighted the role of upstream suppliers in driving up prices. According to Ibrahim, delays in processing by suppliers contribute to increased demand and subsequent price hikes. He emphasized the challenges faced by sellers in explaining these dynamics to consumers who expect price reductions amidst declining costs of other goods.
Furthermore, sellers cautioned that the price of garri may continue to rise, particularly as the rainy season, typically associated with price surges, has yet to reach its peak. With the recent resumption of schools and the imminent return of farmers to their fields, the demand for garri is expected to further strain its supply, potentially exacerbating the price escalation.
