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Despite persistent security challenges in parts of Plateau State, farmers in Mangu and Bokkos Local Government Areas are celebrating a bumper harvest of Irish potatoes, a major economic crop in the area. The early and sustained rainfall this year has significantly boosted Irish potato yields, with local farmers describing the harvest as one of the most successful in recent years.

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“We thank God for the rains,” said Iliya, a farmer in Mangu. “The weather favoured us. Despite the insecurity, we’ve been able to farm and harvest well.” Rebecca Davou, a local farmer in Bokkos, echoed similar sentiments, saying, “Even the middlemen are surprised” by the quality and quantity of Irish potatoes this season.

The bumper harvest has led to a significant drop in market prices, with a 50 kg bag of Irish potatoes now being bought directly from farmers for between N30,000 and N33,000, down from over N100,000 in January. Retailers in Jos city markets are selling the same high-quality potatoes at prices ranging from N40,000 to N45,000.

“There is plenty of supply now. Customers are happy with the lower prices, and we’re still making a profit,” said Amina Ibrahim, a trader at Bukuru market. However, insecurity continues to cast a shadow over farming activities, with some farmers admitting they are constantly on edge while in the fields.

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Governor Caleb Mutfwang has reiterated his administration’s commitment to boosting Irish potato production in the state, saying, “We are working to provide improved seedlings and better farming tools to support our farmers.” The Plateau State government is also collaborating with the federal government to address the root causes of insecurity in affected communities.

As the markets are flooded with large volumes of potatoes, calls are growing for improved storage facilities to prevent post-harvest losses. Despite these challenges, the mood in farming communities remains upbeat, with farmers saying the harvest has given them renewed hope and reason to stay in agriculture.

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