The price of ginger in some Maiduguri markets has hit N600,00 per bag, due to high costs of transportation and farming-related challenges locally.
Some of the ginger traders and consumers, who spoke to the News Agency of Nigeria on Sunday, expressed concern over the sharp increase in the price of ginger.
They, however, attributed the development to insecurity in major producing areas, excessive exportation, rising transportation costs, and the high cost of farm inputs.
A check by NAN correspondent at the Kasuwan Russia in Maiduguri revealed that a bag of locally produced ginger now sells for about N600,000, while a bag of imported Indonesian ginger costs approximately N250,000.
The traders said that although imported Indonesian ginger helps supplement local supply, many consumers still prefer the Nigerian variety because of its stronger flavour and effectiveness as a spice and traditional remedy.
Also Read: Agric experts seek price regulation, smart management of produce
A consumer, Ms Yagana Ali, described the current price as alarming, noting that ginger is widely used in cooking, beverages, and herbal preparations due to its nutritional and medicinal value.
“We bought just three pieces for N1,000. It is becoming too expensive for low-income earners.
“Many people can no longer afford to use it regularly for cooking.
“Government should please do something urgently to reduce the cost,” she said.
A ginger trader, Malam Sherif Sherif, said the commodity remained in high demand despite the rising prices.
He also blamed the situation largely on excessive exportation and insecurity affecting ginger-producing states such as Kaduna, Nasarawa, Niger and Plateau.
According to him, persistent bandit attacks have forced many farmers to abandon their farms, resulting in reduced production and supply.
Another trader, Mohammed Ali, cited insecurity along major highways used to transport the produce to Maiduguri, saying the challenges had increased transportation expenses and contributed to higher market prices.
Also speaking, Ali Umar called on the government to support ginger farmers through empowerment programmes, improve access to agricultural inputs, and enhance security in farming communities to boost production and stabilise prices across the country.
(NAN
