Perhaps the failure of the Federal Government to implement the 2013 National Budget in the sixth month of the year is beginning to take a toll on the financial capabilities of Nigerians.
This has reflected in the feeding habits of most FCT residents who now find solace in boiled groundnuts and corns. Residents capitalised on the prevalent raining season that is characterised by a boom in agricultural harvest; some are now replacing their staple meals with boiled groundnuts and corn, among other 'quick' edibles.
For them, it is an alternative to lunch or as a means of saving on three square meals. Also, many Nigerians are struggling to survive the harsh economic conditions by engaging in various business ventures that could bring in some financial relief and daily food to their table. In Abuja and its environs, sales of boiled groundnuts and roasted/boiled corn is nearly everywhere by any petty trader who considers it a means of making money.
In the face of financial stress and helplessness, petty traders are utilising the comparative advantage of the groundnut/corn season as it is being fully tapped into at this period.
Some buyers and sellers who spoke to Inside FCT admitted that the growing trade has spread to the nooks and crannies of the Federal Capital City, FCC. Michael Udoh, a printer who operates from UTC in Area 10, Abuja said: "Because it is the raining season, the weather is cold and the hot boiled groundnut and hot boiled corn help the body to warm up; that is why I choose to eat it.
In fact, I take hot corn on a daily basis and afterwards, I think I am done for that day. Another resident who finds comfort in corn is Dare Adeyemo, a staff of Virology Office at NNPC Towers, Central Area. Speaking with Inside FCT as he purchased roasted corn from a roadside seller, Adeyemo said: "It is not that I do not have money to buy normal food, but I discovered that everybody in my office eats 'mouth organ' that is why I am here with my friend to buy it.
Sincerely speaking, I must tell you it is good, hot and sweet", he added. Judith David, one of the boiled corn sellers at Wuse Zone 3 Abuja, disclosed that the financial wisdom she is applying in the business. "I make sure that I save a little portion of money made every day from this business.
Everybody knows that the business is a seasonal ones lasting for few months. I believe that at the end of the boom, I will be able to use the money saved to establish myself in some other venture".
She explained that: "With prices of foodstuff like rice, beans and even Garri on the rise, many residents cannot afford three square meals; that is why people are turning their attention to other sources of feeding to keep body and soul together.
"I must confess that it's not a bad business to engage in; there is money in it. Depending on the supplier, you can buy three ears of corn on wholesale for N100, then boil it for sale and make a profit of 100 to 120 for every three pieces of corn sold".
