Chicken and foodstuff traders have lamented low patronage a day before this year’s Christmas festivities.
Some traders interviewed by Abuja Metro linked the situation to the delay in December salary payments, while others pointed to the general economic situation in the country.
Ahmad Iliya, a poultry trader at the Wuse Market, who was seen displaying turkeys yesterday, said the usual high patronage during such festivity had dropped drastically compared to the same period last year.
He said, “I have turkeys in the large category for N80,000 to N150,000, with smaller sizes available for as low as N30,000. But as of this afternoon (yesterday), I have sold only three out of the birds I brought.”
Iliya noted the high cost of maintenance: “I received supplies about a week ago from Katsina, Kano and Kaduna states, and they consume an average of N50,000 in feed every day.
Most people I interact with are complaining about the lack of December salary. I don’t know what will happen between now and tomorrow, but I pray for better sales before the period elapses.”
A resident, Peter Iyke, who was seen boarding a vehicle near the market, said he had yet to do any shopping as of Tuesday.
He said, “The prices of some food items have dropped compared to last year, but that hasn’t taken effect on chicken prices which remain high. We hope to celebrate with joy no matter the situation or the hardship.”
In Kubwa, a chicken farmer based in Suleja, Niger State, Gbenga Dele, came with his broilers expecting a better market in the FCT.
Assisted by his wife and son, Dele parked his vehicle under a pedestrian bridge on the expressway to target passersby and provide shade for his birds.
Expressing his frustration to Abuja Metro, Dele said, “Sincerely speaking, I am short of words regarding this year’s Christmas market. You would be surprised if I tell you what I spent to raise these birds and what people are offering for them. In a good market, a chicken of this size will cost N20,000.
“But people are offering N10,000 or even less. I haven’t sold any since I arrived this morning. The birds are nine weeks old now, and I am ready to sell at N12,000 – well below my initial target of N15,000.”
Dele noted that the dull market affected more than just civil servants as business owners and artisans were also feeling the pinch.
Almustafa Imam, a foodstuff trader at the Kubwa Main Market, confirmed that the drop in patronage affected all sectors.
He said, “Previously, during Christmas shopping, the majority of our customers bought whole bags. Now, even those who buy in bulk are scarce. The situation has affected all traders, including those of us selling foodstuff.”
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