How Jos roadside vendors defy odds to thrive

In the heart of Jos, Plateau State, a community of roadside vendors continues to defy the odds, proving that resilience and determination can overcome the most difficult of challenges. These sellers, many of whom are women, have become integral to the city’s economy, providing goods and services to locals and visitors alike. Despite facing numerous obstacles, they have thrived through sheer perseverance and adaptability.

Roadside selling in Jos is not just a means of livelihood; it’s a way of life. From food to clothing, electronics, and even motor parts, these sellers line the roadsides daily, offering an array of items to the public. Many of these vendors have been operating for years, some even for decades. Yet, their journey has not been easy, as they face persistent hurdles ranging from inadequate infrastructure to government regulations.

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One of the major challenges they face is the lack of proper infrastructure. Jos, like many Nigerian cities, struggles with poor road conditions and inadequate waste management systems. For the vendors, this means dealing with dust, bad roads, and the ever-present threat of their stalls being demolished by local authorities. Despite this, they remain committed to their businesses, finding creative ways to work around the limitations.

“I’ve been selling here for over 15 years. It’s not easy, especially with the bad roads and the constant threat of demolition. But it’s how I feed my children and support my family. I have no choice but to keep going.” Said Mariam Ibrahim, a seller of second-hand clothes along the Zaria road in Jos.

Like Mariam, many other vendors in the area have had to endure the vagaries of the local economy and the harsh realities of street vending.

Experts in urban development argue that the growth of informal markets in cities like Jos is a direct result of inadequate formal employment opportunities. According to a town planner and a staff of the state ministry of Housing and Urban development in Plateau state, informal selling provides a safety net for the many unemployed citizens of the state. “The informal sector in Nigeria, particularly in cities like Jos, plays a crucial role in providing livelihoods for the people. It helps to alleviate poverty and reduce unemployment,” the town planner who did not want his name in print said.

However, he also warned that while informal markets provide essential services, they also present several challenges for urban planning. According to him, the lack of regulation, poor waste disposal, and unsanitary conditions are just some of the issues that arise from the proliferation of roadside vending.

Looking ahead, he believe that with the right support from both the government and private sector, roadside vendors in Jos could play an even more significant role in the city’s economy.

Caleb Mutfwang, the state governor, during the 2025 new year broadcast promised to improve on the infrastructure of the state, the governor highlighted the rehabilitation of several roads within the Jos-Bukuru Metropolis and declared 2025 the “Year of Groundbreaking of Road Construction.” He announced plans for urban renewal projects, including the development of modern community markets across the state and a major reconstruction of the Jos Main Market, aimed at fostering business growth.

Despite these promises, many vendors remain skeptical of government intentions. “They say they are going to help us, but we’ve heard this for years. They come, take our data, and nothing changes,” said Olumide Adebayo, a roadside seller of phone accessories along Bauchi road.

Many vendors believe that the government’s plans often get delayed or are not implemented effectively.

The insecurity in the state also adds another layer of complexity to the situation. Plateau State has experienced sporadic conflicts in recent years, and the roadside sellers have not been immune to these challenges. “Sometimes, we lose our goods to theft or even attacks from people during periods of unrest. It’s a constant struggle to stay safe and protect our livelihoods,” said Adebayo, whose stall was once looted during a period of violent clashes in the city.

Despite the security challenges, many sellers in Jos remain hopeful that things will improve. Some have banded together to form cooperative societies to protect their businesses and share resources. These cooperatives have proven to be a strong support system, allowing vendors to pool money for better stock, marketing, and even legal protection in case of disputes with the authorities.

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“I joined a cooperative because it’s easier to get good deals on goods and services. We also help each other when there are challenges like roadblocks or threats from the authorities.Together, we are stronger.” said Ngozi Nwachukwu, a food vendor along the popular Zaria road.

As the vendors continue to fight for their place in the urban landscape of Jos, some are beginning to see the fruits of their labour. The steady influx of customers and the loyalty of regulars have allowed some vendors to expand their businesses. For instance, Mariam Ibrahim, who started with a small kiosk selling second-hand clothes, now runs a thriving business with several employees.

“I started with just a small space, but over time, my business grew because I made sure I provided quality goods at affordable prices. My customers trust me, and that’s why I’ve been able to stay in business for so long,” said Ibrahim.

For many of the vendors, the road ahead is uncertain, but their resilience is unshaken. Despite the many challenges, they continue to be a vital part of Jos’s economy and culture. These sellers have found ways to adapt and thrive, even when the odds are stacked against them.

For now, the roadside vendors of Jos continue to press on, navigating the daily challenges of their trade with the hope that one day, their hard work will be met with the recognition and support they deserve. In a city marked by its struggles, these vendors stand as a testament to the strength and resilience of ordinary people striving to make a living against all odds.