Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, has commissioned the reconstructed Yola Market, renamed Modibbo Adama Modern Market, Yola (MAMMY), saying the N2.98 billion project will end decades of recurring fire outbreaks, congestion and poor sanitation that disrupted commercial activities.
The governor said the new market reflects his administration’s commitment to modern infrastructure that promotes economic growth, safeguards traders’ investments and improves the business environment in the state.
The commissioning comes as state governments across Nigeria continue to invest in the rehabilitation of public markets to boost commerce, improve urban planning and enhance safety for traders and consumers.
Speaking during the inauguration in Yola on Tuesday, Fintiri said the old market had become notorious for frequent fire incidents that destroyed shops and goods worth millions of naira.
He said his administration chose a permanent solution by rebuilding the market with modern facilities instead of attributing the repeated disasters to superstition.
“Rather than blaming recurring fire outbreaks on superstition, we decided to provide a practical and lasting solution by rebuilding the market with modern facilities that will enhance safety and protect traders’ investments.”
The governor said the reconstructed market comprises 936 shops, including 816 lock-up shops and 120 open stalls, with improved infrastructure designed to strengthen security, sanitation and the overall trading environment.
He disclosed that although the traders’ union submitted the names of 307 eligible beneficiaries, the government increased the allocation to 350 shops to accommodate those omitted from the initial list.
Fintiri directed the Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industries to engage professional facility managers to oversee security, sanitation and routine maintenance of the market.
“This investment must be properly managed and maintained to ensure the market remains safe, clean and functional for generations of traders.”
He said naming the facility after Modibbo Adama, the founder of the old Adamawa Emirate, reflects the state’s commitment to preserving its history while investing in modern infrastructure.
The governor expressed confidence that the new market would provide a safer and more conducive environment for businesses to thrive and stimulate economic activities across Adamawa State.
“Today, I formally declare this facility as the Modibbo Adama Modern Market, Yola, a symbol of our heritage and our commitment to building a stronger economy.”
The reconstruction of the market forms part of the Adamawa State Government’s broader urban renewal programme aimed at upgrading public infrastructure, improving commercial facilities and strengthening economic development across the state.
