By NANMI STEPHEN
For the past twenty years, Mrs. Talatu Makaho has faithfully sold fruits from her small spot in front of THE NIGERIA STANDARD Newspaper office, along Joseph Gomwalk Road, Jos.
“I began my business with as little as one thousand naira,” she recalled.
“I would go to Farin Gada Market to buy oranges, watermelons, garden eggs and pineapples.”
While the income has sustained her family, she admits that “eking a living through the fruit business is not easy.”
The work becomes especially difficult during the rainy season, when fruits spoil quickly and profits shrink.
Makaho, who lost her husband years ago, said the fruit business helped her survive her darkest days.
“When I became a widow with many responsibilities, I had to fend for my children alone. The fruits became my lifeline.”
She explained that the perishable nature of fruits remains her biggest challenge.
“During the rainy season, many go bad. That’s why I wouldn’t mind having a second stream of income, like street sweeping — anything steady to provide for my children.”
Despite the odds, Makaho continues to run her business daily, often without basic shelter.
“Even after twenty years, I’m still here — without an umbrella — because every kobo I make goes into feeding and paying school fees,” she said with quiet pride.
“I’m just grateful that I can still provide for my family.”
Her small stand remains a familiar sight in front of the newspaper office.
She has noticed that more people now appreciate the importance of eating fruits. “But the changing seasons make it tough,” she added.
“When watermelons spoil, I switch to oranges and garden eggs. Still, some days, I sell nothing.”
Makaho never had the opportunity to go to school and hopes for a more stable means of income.
“Even though my business isn’t growing as I hoped, I’ll keep selling fruits. My dream is for my children to have a better life,” she said.
“My only prayer is that someday, a government grant will reach me.”
A few of her loyal customers described her as consistent and fair, praising both her dedication and her reasonable prices.
Mrs. Makaho’s story mirrors the struggle of many low-income earners who continue to show courage and resilience in the face of economic hardship — a reminder that behind every roadside stall is a tale of resilience, determination and hope.