Gombe Grain Market Still Booms, 88 Years After Establishment
The ‘Tudun Hatsi’ market in Gombe metropolis, exclusively selling grains, remains vibrant 88 years after its establishment during Emir Haruna Umaru’s reign (1922–1935). Located on a hill opposite the old Gombe market, it consists of temporary shops with corrugated roofing.
Dahiru Muhammad, an 18-year grain merchant, explained they sell beans, millet, maize, soybeans, sesame seeds, rice, and guinea corn, sourced from rural markets within Gombe and neighboring states like Adamawa, Borno, Yobe, Jigawa, and Katsina. Beans are particularly popular among southern merchants. Despite economic challenges, the market sees steady patronage because “people must eat to survive,” attracting traders from across Nigeria and even Ghana, Chad, and Niger. Additionally, goods are sold on commission.
Muhammad noted that technological advancements have shifted business operations, with merchants now ordering via photos and making deposits through banks. However, fluctuating prices pose challenges.
He highlighted that the market contributes over N8 million monthly to state and local governments, with over 10 trucks carrying at least 400 bags each leaving daily. The market generates millions in monthly transactions, mostly via banks.
Rising food prices, attributed to exchange rates affecting farm inputs, have seen beans at N95,000 per bag, maize at N55,000, millet at N52,000, soybeans at N59,000, and guinea corn at N54,000. Muhammad denied claims of hoarding by grain traders.
The market provides significant employment, with over 1,000 traders and more than 600 laborers. Laborer Malam Isa Sani mentioned they earn N300 to N350 per truck, potentially making N24,500 daily, supporting education and families, though work volume can vary.
Source: Daily Trust
OUR REVIEW
The enduring success of the Tudun Hatsi market in Gombe is a testament to its critical role in Africa’s agri-food value chain. Facilitating the trade of diverse grains such as beans, millet, maize, soybeans, sesame seeds, rice, and guinea corn, significantly impacts regional food security and economic stability. The market’s ability to adapt to technological advancements, like remote transactions, enhances efficiency and broadens its reach, attracting traders from across Nigeria and neighboring countries.
Economic challenges, including fluctuating grain prices due to exchange rate volatility, underscore the need for informed decision-making and adaptive strategies. The market’s contribution of over N8 million in monthly revenue to local and state governments highlights its economic significance. Additionally, employing over 1,000 traders and 600 laborers supports community livelihoods and education.
For stakeholders in the agri-food sector, the Tudun Hatsi market’s operations offer valuable insights into sustainable market practices, the importance of technological integration, and the resilience of traditional markets. These insights can guide policy development and investment decisions aimed at fostering growth and stability within the agri-food value chain.
