Preparations For Christmas Heighten In Abuja

Preparations in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) for Christmas has heightened. Theree were scenes of both bustling commerce and logistical gridlock at major markets and motor parks.

LEADERSHIP conducted surveys in key locations, capturing a mixed picture of economic relief for traders and travel woes for residents.

At the bustling Dutse Market, Kubwa Modern Market, and the sprawling Kubwa FO1 Main Market, a 24-hour period leading up to Christmas saw an unprecedented influx of shoppers.

Traders reported a significant spike in sales, particularly for food items, clothing, decorations, and perishable goods.

“Sales have been outstanding, better than last year. People are buying, but see how prices have climbed. A bag of rice is now out of reach for many. We are selling, but we are also buying at high prices,” said Mama Aisha, a grains seller at Dutse Market.

Indeed, the survey revealed that while turnover was high, inflation cast a long shadow over the industry. Prices of turkey, chickens, rice, tomatoes, and poultry were marked up by 40-60 per cent compared to October.

Customers, though plentiful, were more discerning, with many complaining about the cost of celebration.

“The market is too choked, and everything is still expensive but better compared to last year’s Christmas. But it is Christmas; we must find a way to celebrate with our families,” Ephraim Alhaji in Kubwa market said.

Security personnel were visibly present, and market officials struggled to manage both vehicular and human traffic, leading to congested aisles and occasional disputes over parking.

The story at motor parks was one of severe strain. Major parks, including Nyanya, Jabi, and Zuba, were inundated with travellers seeking to reunite with families in neighbouring states.

According to information obtained, queues for buses bound for the South-East, South-West, and North-Central states stretched for hundreds of metres.

A survey of transport fares showed a sharp increase. At the popular Zuba garage, a trip from Abuja to Lagos, which usually costs between ₦25,000 and ₦30,000, has soared to ₦45,000. Routes to the South-East, such as Abuja to Enugu, saw fares double.

“It’s the highest I have seen in five years. The demand is very high, and the number of vehicles is limited. Many people have been here since morning waiting for a bus,” stated John Okorie, a park official at Zuba.

Commuters shared tales of frustration. “I have been here for six hours. “The fare is high, the crowd is too much, and there is no proper order. But I have to go home,” Grace said at Zuba Park.

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) reported deploying extra personnel to manage the traffic around park entrances and conducting vehicle safety checks.