The situation in Kaduna, as Christmas approaches, paints a stark picture of economic hardship. Prices of basic food items like rice, beans, yams, and noodles have surged, making it increasingly difficult for many families to afford essentials for the holiday.
In just a year, the cost of a 50kg bag of rice has increased from around N80,000 to N90,000-N100,000, while yams have jumped from N5,000 per tuber to N7,000. Similarly, other staples like garri, beans, and noodles have also seen price hikes.
Traders attribute the soaring prices to rising costs at depots and higher transportation expenses. Local sellers are being forced to adjust their pricing strategies—some, like Monday Zango, no longer sell goods in smaller quantities to avoid losses.
Residents of Kaduna, including people like Suleiman Adamu, are calling for urgent intervention from the government. They argue that the situation is worsened by insecurity and the rising cost of petrol, which has further exacerbated the prices of necessities.
The frustration is palpable, as both Christian and Muslim communities face similar struggles, with many lamenting that celebrations have become symbolic, as there is little to celebrate in terms of material wealth. They are calling for leadership that can tackle these economic challenges head-on, to ensure that Nigerians are not left in continued suffering.
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