Taraba: Fashion Designers Lament Delays, Low Power Supply as Christmas Orders Rise
By Felix Chrisantus Dame
Fashion designers at the Nukkai Market in Jalingo, the Taraba State capital have expressed mixed feelings about this year’s business outlook as the Christmas season approaches.
Speaking during an interview at his workshop, Mr. Peter, a designer, said December is usually their peak period for sales.
He recalled that last year, they made between ₦60,000 and ₦70,000 daily and enjoyed smooth operations.
However, he noted that this year has been more challenging.
According to him, delays in customers’ payments and late deposits are affecting their ability to buy materials and deliver finished outfits on time.
Another designer, Bro. Kingsley, blamed the frequent power outages in Jalingo for slowing down production.
He said the unstable electricity supply remains one of their biggest problems and urged the government to improve power infrastructure rather than make unfulfilled promises.
Some customers also shared their frustrations. One customer claimed designers often fail to meet deadlines because they take on too many orders.
He added that despite paying on time, some designers prioritize certain customers or even misuse materials brought by clients.
Both designers and customers appealed to the government to intervene and address the persistent electricity challenges and other issues affecting small businesses in the market.
