Mandate Market, formerly known as Kwara State Trade Fair Complex, remains a major marketplace in Ilorin, the capital city of Kwara State. It serves as a primary hub for foodstuff, particularly grains.
Food vendors report a notable decline in food prices, especially rice. A 50kg bag of rice, which cost around 67,000 naira a week ago, is now available for 52,000 to 54,000 naira. This drop is attributed to the recent strengthening of the Nigerian naira against the US dollar.
However, prices of other food items such as beans, garri, corn, millet, and guinea corn have remained stable or witnessed a slight increase. Vendors indicate that the prices of locally produced foodstuff have not declined due to ongoing security challenges.
