Gov. Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau, on Wednesday inaugurated the newly constructed neighborhood market in Bukuru, Jos South Local Government Area (LGA) of the state.
Speaking at the event, Mutfwang said that the market was an initiative of the Jos Metropolitan Development Board (JMDB).
According to him, the initiave aims at empowering women and youths in the state, particularly the vulnerable ones.
The governor added that the project is part of his administration’s resolve to provide a decent, safe and enabling environment for economic growth and social justice in the state.
“This event is dear to my heart because it represents far-reaching opportunities for the economic empowerment of our women and youths, who are the direct beneficiaries of this project
“We are determined that our traders and shoppers should operate in a secure, clean and well-organised marketplace, free from crime and health hazards, boost commercial activities and enhance the prosperity of Plateau.
“In line with our administration’s people-centered approach, I have directed the management of this facility to prioritise the interest of displaced women in the allocation of shops.
“This market must serve as a channel of hope and opportunity for those who were previously disadvantaged,”he said.
The governor, who commended the management of the Consolidated Tin Mines (CTM), for providing the space for the market, said that plans were underway to build more neighbourhood markets in the state.
“Clearly, this market is not just a trading hub; it is a lifeline designed to restore dignity and stability to our traders, many of whom are displaced and forced to roam.
“Beyond Bukuru, government is already making efforts to commence the reconstruction of Kugiya market, the Jos main market, Maraban Jama’a market, and other neighborhood markets across the state.
“These initiatives are deliberate steps to position Plateau as a safe, organised and attractive destination for commerce and investment on a global scale.
“Our vision under the Greater Jos Master Plan is to build modern, functional cities with well-structured market facilities that encourage business growth and economic integration,”Mutfwang said.
The governor insisted that his administration would continually pursue programmes and initiate policies that would place Plateau on the path of economic prosperity.
Earlier, Mr Hart Bankat, the General Manager of JMDB, said that the initiave aimed at providing a more conducive and safer grounds for businesses in the state.
He explained that the facility houses more than 470 shops, lock-up shops, warehouses, stalls and open space to accommodate more than 2,000 hawkers.
Bankat explained that the project, which began in July 2024, was completed within specification.
He further explained that the project aligned with the greater Jos master plan, a comprehensive development framework aimed at transforming Jos and Bukuru into a modern, sustainable and livable metropolis.
“This event marks a significant milestone in our collective efforts to enhance economic development, improve infrastructure and provide a conducive environment for traders and marketers in Plateau
“This facility is designed to meet the needs of traders and shoppers alike, providing clean and well organised environment that will undoubtedly boost economic activities in this area,”he said
The general manager, who thanked the governor for his support towards the completion of the project, promised to do more to propel economic prosperity in the state.
