From feast to famine for farmers: Sweet potatoes crashing over 100% at Bauchi’s Wunti Market—medium bags now N5,000 (down from N15,000), baskets N500 (from N2,000)—thanks to bumper supplies and weak demand.
NAN checks revealed poor patronage amid cereal/perishable price drops this harvest. Grocer Malam Baba Ahmed at Wuntin Dada blamed ample food alternatives: “Last season I sold briskly when prices were high—now students are on holiday, and folks skip sweet potatoes.” Trader Audu Bala noted buyers chasing cheaper rice, maize, beans.
Farmer Musa Garba cried losses: “Consumers love it, but we’re struggling to recoup investments.” He urged subsidies, financing, markets, and price controls. Agronomist David Markkus credited better supply chains and seasons, but stressed farmer support for food security balance.
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