The cost of de-stoned locally grown rice has seen a slight reduction of about six to ten percent in markets across Enugu, prompting many residents to favor this option.
Reports from the News Agency of Nigeria indicate that traders attribute the price decline to the ongoing local rice harvest season.
At the well-known Ogbete Main Market, a trader, Mrs. Rose Nwakwo, disclosed that the price of a 50-kg bag has dropped to N78,000 from N84,000 in November.
Similarly, Mr. Chidi Orji, a dealer at Garki Market, stated that a five-litre paint container of the rice now sells for N6,500, down from N7,500.
Orji encouraged residents to take advantage of the current prices and stock up before any possible price hikes. NAN observed that numerous retailers and street hawkers dealing in smaller quantities like cups and bushels are actively building up their stock.
Mrs. Eunice Madu, a grain trader at Mayor Market, mentioned that she is prioritizing stocking large quantities of de-stoned local rice, often referred to as ‘Abakaliki rice,’ in preparation for the festive season.
“To be honest, most of our available stock is being sold quickly because of the reduced price and the noticeable improvements in its processing and de-stoning quality,” Madu explained.
One customer, Mr. Edwin Okoh, expressed satisfaction with the price reduction, saying it allows him to afford more than one 50-kg bag for his family.
“It’s a relief that the cost has gone down somewhat. Now, I can buy enough for both my immediate and extended family during the festive period,” Okoh shared.
