Niger Market Development Agency to establish a new administrative system for modern markets
The newly formed Niger State Market Development Agency has announced plans to create an efficient administrative system to oversee and manage modern markets throughout the state.
The Agency’s Managing Director, QS Abubakar Sadauki, shared this information during a courtesy visit to the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Niger State Council, Dr. Abu Nmodu, at the IBB Pen House in Minna.
Sadauki explained that the goal of this initiative is to fix existing issues in market management, especially in maintaining social amenities and other critical facilities, as well as ensuring safety and order within the markets.
He revealed that the proposed administrative team—consisting of a Manager, Secretary, Treasurer, and other key officials, along with consultants—will initially test this system as a pilot program in the modern markets in Minna, Suleja, and Kontagora.
The Managing Director expressed concern about the lack of a proper administrative framework at the Abdulkadir Kure Modern Market in Minna, highlighting that this has led to deviations from the original master plan, low revenue, and poor parking conditions.
He also criticized the fact that facilities like the fire station and clinic within the market have been turned into shops and given to individuals.
Additionally, Sadauki announced plans to develop standard, modern markets in key areas of Minna to boost revenue and promote economic activity.
He stated that the Agency was established mainly to regulate market operations following global best practices.
He called on journalists in the state to support the Agency in achieving its objectives.
In response, NUJ Chairman Dr. Abu Nmodu praised Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago for creating the Agency. He pointed out that the state can leverage its proximity to the Federal Capital Territory to develop large-scale markets in Suleja, Tafa, and Gurara Local Government Areas.
Dr. Nmodu emphasized the importance of upgrading from old market structures to modern facilities that meet international standards. He assured that journalists will support efforts to promote the Agency’s goals and strengthen the state’s economic growth through trade and industry.
