Traders in Kaduna have lamented the continuous rise in transportation costs resulting from fuel price increases, stating that the situation is affecting their businesses.

The traders disclosed this in separate interviews in Kaduna. They said the rising cost of transportation, which also manifests in higher goods prices, had reduced patronage.

David Philip a businessman with Heritage Agro Allied said the cost of transporting goods from Lagos and Ibadan to Kaduna has risen tremendously which in turn has increased goods prices.

“Products that we sell for N160,000 have risen to N180,000, some that were N90,000 are now N100,000. There is a decrease in customer patronage, customers are not coming as they used to,” he said.

Divine Unogwu, a trader dealing in day-old chickens and chicken feeds said the hike in transportation affected the cost of day-old chickens, which rose by over 100 per cent.

“The price of day-old chickens has risen from N800 to N1800,” she said.

Emmanuella Ejike, who sells electronic and solar appliances stated that the increase in goods prices began when imported goods arrived in Lagos and finally reached Kaduna.

According to her, the cost of transportation forced her to increase her goods’ prices to stay in business.

“I usually get 10 to 15 customers per day, but the number has now dropped to about five,” she stated.

Chima Chidi, a provision store owner said the price of most goods has increased due to the rising cost of transportation.

Similarly, Blessing Adebanjo, a restaurant owner said the food business was also affected by development.

Ms Adebanjo urged the government to do more to address the rising cost of transportation as it affects food security.

(NAN)