…Warn of post-harvest losses amid storage facility gaps
Despite persistent security challenges in parts of Plateau State, farmers in Mangu and Bokkos Local Government Areas are celebrating a bumper harvest of Irish potatoes, a major economic crop in the area.
For over a decade, these areas and other parts of Plateau state have witnessed sporadic attacks by unknown gunmen, displacing some residents and causing tension. However, local farmers say the early and sustained rainfall this year has significantly boosted Irish potato yields.
Speaking with BusinessDay, several farmers in Mangu described the harvest as one of the most successful in recent years. “We thank God for the rains,” said Iliya, a farmer in Mangu. “The weather favoured us. Despite the insecurity, we’ve been able to farm and harvest well.”
Read also: Unlocking Nigeria’s potato potential: Sustainable seed pathways for smallholder farmers
In Bokkos, another major potato-producing hub, farmers echoed similar sentiments. According to Rebecca Davou, a local farmer, the quality and quantity of Irish potatoes this season are unmatched. “Even the middlemen are surprised,” she said.
The bumper harvest has led to a significant drop in market prices. In January, a 50kg bag of Irish potatoes was sold at over N100,000 in some markets. Now, the same quantity is being bought directly from farmers for between N30,000 and N33,000.
Retailers in Jos city markets such as Farin Gada, Bukuru, and Taminus are selling the same high-quality potatoes at prices ranging from N40,000 to N45,000, depending on the variety and the buyer’s bargaining strength.
Read also: Can Plateau’s potato bumper harvest soften Nigeria’s food crisis
Traders say the influx of produce has forced them to adjust their pricing. “There is plenty of supply now. Customers are happy with the lower prices, and we’re still making profit,” said Amina Ibrahim, a trader at Bukuru market.
Despite the promising harvest, insecurity continues to cast a shadow over farming activities. Some farmers admitted they are constantly on edge while in the fields, unsure of what each day may bring.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang, in one of his media outings, reiterated his administration’s commitment to boosting Irish potato production in the state. “We are working to provide improved seedlings and better farming tools to support our farmers,” Mutfwang said.
He noted that the Plateau State government is collaborating with the federal government to address the root causes of insecurity in affected communities.
Read also: Inside Nigeria’s $1.3bn potato industry
Meanwhile, calls are growing for improved storage facilities to prevent post-harvest losses, as large volumes of potatoes flood the markets. Many warn that without preservation, much of the surplus could go to waste.
Despite these challenges, the mood in farming communities remains upbeat. Farmers say the harvest has given them renewed hope and reason to stay in agriculture, even as they continue to pray for lasting peace in Plateau State.
