IRISH POTATO HARVEST KICKS IN WITHIN COUNTRY CALLING FOR FERTILISER SUBSIDIES.
AN abundant harvest in Nigeria has led to a decrease in potato prices.
Previously, a 65-kg bag reached N150,000 to 180,000 owing to factors like regional insecurity and farmer-herder conflicts, which affected agricultural activities. Now, with the influx of produce from Bokkos, Mangu, Jos South, Jos North, Bassa, and Jos East LGAs, prices have fallen to around N45,000 per 65kg bag.
As Nigeria enters the Irish potato harvest season, Plateau State, known for its fertile lands, is at the forefront, contributing significantly to the national output.
One local trader suggested the price drop advised buying now before potential future scarcity. Community leaders and growers have said last year’s favourable weather played a role in the increased yields but said fertiliser costs are now a real concern. There have been calls for government subsidies for fertilisers to maintain stable prices and enhance productivity.
The recent price stabilisation and increased market activity in Plateau State’s Irish potato sector suggest a positive trend amidst Nigeria’s food inflation challenges.
Nigeria is one of the largest producers of potatoes in Africa. The production of Irish potato in any part of Nigeria is an integral part of the rural economy, as it is cultivated as a rain-fed and irrigated crop.
Source: Fresh Plaza
