Plateau state has been bedeviled with security challenges, marked by gunmen attacks, farmer/herder clashes, among others but despite that, parts of Plateau state, particularly Mangu and Bokkos Local Government Areas are celebrating a bumper harvest of Irish potatoes, a major economic crop in the area.

For over a decade, these areas and other parts of Plateau state have witnessed sporadic attacks which have displaced some residents, causing tension. However, local farmers said the early and sustained rainfall this year has significantly boosted Irish potato yields.

Speaking to journalists, many farmers in Mangu described the harvest as one of the most successful in recent years.

One of the farmers, Iliya, a potato farmer in Mangu, said “We thank God for the rains.”

 “The weather favoured us. Despite the insecurity, we’ve been able to farm and harvest well,” Iliya concluded.

According to Rebecca Davou, a local farmer, the quality and quantity of Irish potatoes this season are unmatched. “Even the middlemen are surprised,” she said.

The bumper harvest has occasioned significant drop in market prices. In January, a 50kg bag of Irish potatoes was sold at over N100,000 in some markets. 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 bargaining strength.

Traders say 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 Amina Ibrahim, a trader at Bukuru market.