Prices of essential food items at Potiskum Market, Yobe
story by Kashim ISA Muhammed, Yobe
There is a wave of relief across Potiskum Local Government Area in Yobe State as prices of major grains have witnessed a significant drop this week.
In the Potiskum Grains Market, traders and consumers alike are expressing mixed feelings, joy for buyers and cautious optimism among sellers, as staples such as maize, millet, beans, sorghum, and others record noticeable price reductions.
According to the latest market survey conducted on October 10th, 2025, the price of old maize now ranges between ₦35,000 and ₦40,000 per bag.
Newly harvested maize has become even more affordable, dropping further to between ₦27,000 and ₦30,000. Many residents attribute this change to the recent harvest season and increased supply in local markets.
New millet prices have also shown flexibility, now selling between ₦29,000 and ₦31,000. Similarly, white beans (large size) currently trade for ₦65,000 to ₦70,000, while red beans (large size) range from ₦70,000 to ₦75,000.
Other grains and staples have followed the same trend. Roselle (Zobo dried flower) now sells between ₦20,000 and ₦21,000, while melon prices vary between ₦54,000 and ₦55,000, and up to ₦60,000 to ₦65,000 depending on the variant. Rice, one of the most consumed food items, is currently priced at ₦120,000 for polished varieties, while the cost of broken or processed rice fluctuates depending on quality and source.
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Groundnuts have maintained moderate prices, selling between ₦130,000 and ₦135,000, while sorghum now sells at ₦21,000 to ₦22,000, marking one of the most affordable price points in recent months.
However, sellers and farmers are viewing the situation with a mix of gratitude and concern. While they acknowledge that the improved harvest and stable supply chain have boosted availability, some traders worry about profit margins. “The prices are good for customers, but our profits have reduced,” said Malam Usman Adamu, a grain trader in Potiskum Market. “Still, we thank God because at least sales are moving fast.”
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Market analysts suggest that this downward trend could continue for a few more weeks as the harvest season progresses, after which prices may stabilise depending on storage conditions, demand, and transportation costs.
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