Relief, mixed reactions as grains, other food prices drop in Danbam Market

Story by Kasim Isa MUHAMMAD

Grain traders and consumers in Danbam Local Government Area of Bauchi State have expressed mixed reactions as prices of essential grains such as beans, millet, sorghum, and maize recorded a significant drop this week at the Danbam Grains Market.

According to traders, the decline in prices comes as new harvests from local farms continue to flood the market, easing months of high food costs that had burdened consumers. The new prices obtainable this week show noticeable reductions across several key staples.

Old maize, which previously sold at around ₦38,000 per 100kg bag, is now going for between ₦35,000 and ₦36,000, while newly harvested maize is even more affordable, selling at ₦25,000 to ₦27,000 per bag. Similarly, millet has dropped, with new millet now priced between ₦30,000 and ₦32,000.

For beans, one of the most consumed grains in northern Nigeria, prices also saw a decline. White beans (large) are now selling between ₦65,000 and ₦70,000, down from previous highs above ₦73,000. Red beans (large) are trading between ₦70,000 and ₦75,000. Other notable commodities, such as roselle seeds (₦20,000–₦21,000), melon (₦54,000–₦55,000, and up to ₦60,000–₦65,000 for certain variants), and sorghum (₦25,000–₦27,000), have also recorded price relief.

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However, not all grains followed the downward trend. Bambara nuts remain relatively expensive, ranging between ₦160,000 and ₦173,000, while local rice continues to command high prices. Polished varieties go for ₦125,000.

From the buyers’ perspective, the development comes as a major relief. Many residents of Danbam and surrounding communities expressed joy, saying the price drop has made it easier to afford basic food staples. “We thank Allah for this blessing,” said Aisha Mohammed, a mother of five shopping in the market. “Just last month, maize and millet were too expensive. Now, I can buy enough for my family again.”

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Sellers, however, have mixed feelings. While some are pleased that the new harvest has revived market activity, others worry about reduced profit margins. “The market is moving, but our profit is smaller now,” explained Musa Adamu, a grain trader in the Danbam Market. “We buy at lower prices from farmers, yes, but transportation and storage still cost us much.”

Despite the varying sentiments, both buyers and sellers agree that the drop in grain prices signals a positive turn for local food security. With the ongoing harvest season, stakeholders remain hopeful that prices will continue to stabilise in the coming weeks.

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