Amid persistent security challenges in parts of Plateau State, farmers in the Mangu and Bokkos Local Government Areas are celebrating a bumper harvest of Irish potatoes, a major economic crop in the area councils. For over a decade, these areas and other parts of Plateau State have witnessed sporadic attacks by unknown gunmen, displacing some residents, causing tension, and that the early and sustained rainfall this year has significantly boosted yields.
A number of farmers in Mangu described the harvest as one of the most successful in recent years. “We thank God for the rains”, said Jimoh Bello, a farmer in Mangu. “The weather favoured us and despite the insecurity, we’ve been able to farm and harvest well”. In Bokkos, another major potato-producing hub, farmers echoed similar sentiments. According to Rebecca Davou, another local farmer, the quality and quantity of Irish potatoes this season are unmatched and that even the middlemen are surprised by trends, she said.
The bumper harvest has led to a significant drop in market prices in the state. In January, a 50 kilogram bag of Irish potatoes was sold at over N100,000 in some markets and 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 negotiation skills. Traders have desrcibed 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 Suliat Binta, another trader.
Despite the promising harvest, insecurity continues to cast a shadow over farming activities, as some farmers admitted they are constantly on edge while in the fields, unsure of what each day may bring. The Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang had reiterated his administration’s commitment to boosting Irish potato production in the state, saying “We are working to provide improved seedlings and better farming tools to support our farmers”. The Plateau State government is said to be collaborating with the Federal Government to address the root causes of insecurity in affected communities. Meanwhile, calls are growing for improved storage facilities to prevent post-harvest losses, as large volumes of potatoes flood the markets. A Lagos-based food scientist, Andrew Peters said much of the surplus could go to waste, if not properly managed.
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