By Patrick Idowu
Clothing retailers in Arab Road Market, Kubwa, Abuja, have lamented poor patronage barely six days to Christmas, attributing the decline to the harsh economic conditions in the country.
David Onyebueke, a children’s clothing and footwear dealer, blamed the situation on delayed December salaries for civil servants, who make up a significant portion of his customers.
“Many civil servants prioritize transportation and feeding over clothes. Last year, sales were better at this time.
“We are praying for improvement and urge the government to pay the new minimum wage,” he said.
Mrs. Ekene Ugochukwu, another trader, revealed that some customers sought to buy on credit due to unpaid salaries.
“I can’t sell on credit. Things are hard for business owners like us; we’ve invested so much in goods, but buyers are scarce,” she lamented.
For Mrs. Daisy Idaghe, a seller of fairly used children’s clothing, the focus on food rather than clothing is impacting her business.
“The bale of clothes I bought for ₦300,000 last year now costs ₦700,000. Prices are high, and customers are not coming,” she said.
However, Mrs. Ezinne Kalu expressed gratitude for the little sales she made.
“Business improves daily, and I thank God. We also need to pray for our leaders for God to touch their hearts to implement policies beneficial to everyone,” she advised.
Traders continue to hope for better sales as the festive season progresses.
