Bauchi Gov Flags Off Construction Of Modern Market

In a bold move to transform Bauchi into a commercial powerhouse in northeastern Nigeria, Governor Bala Mohammed has laid the foundation for the construction of a modern market designed to stimulate economic growth and empower local traders. He said the market would end roadside trading and its associated risks.

Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony yesterday in Bauchi, the governor described the initiative as a strategic step toward repositioning Bauchi as a thriving hub for commerce and business.

He said the new market would not only boost commercial traffic but also attract traders and investors from across the country, creating jobs and expanding the state’s revenue base.

Governor Mohammed noted that the project, being executed through a public-private partnership arrangement, reflects his administration’s commitment to sustainable development.

To him, the market would provide a safe, organised, and modern trading environment capable of accommodating a wide range of businesses, from small-scale retailers to large commodity dealers.

He decried the persistent congestion in the state capital, particularly the growing trend of trading along major roads, which he said poses serious security risks and endangers lives.

“This project will address roadside trading, reduce traffic gridlock, and enhance safety for both traders and residents,” he said.

The governor further directed that the allocation of shops must be carried out with fairness, transparency, and equity, warning against favoritism or political patronage in the distribution process.

He stressed that genuine traders should be given priority to ensure the market achieves its intended purpose.

Earlier in his remarks, the Commissioner for Cooperatives, Small and Medium Enterprises Development, Sadiq Shira, revealed that the ultra-modern market will feature fully equipped shops, a police station, toilet facilities, a fire-fighting station, and a steady water supply to guarantee safety and convenience for traders and customers alike.

Shira added that the inclusion of critical infrastructure such as security and emergency response units underscores the government’s resolve to create a business-friendly environment that meets modern standards.

He said the project would significantly reduce the risks associated with unregulated trading clusters and improve overall urban planning within the metropolis.

The commissioner also explained that the ministry had conducted extensive consultations with trader associations and other stakeholders before the project’s commencement.

According to him, the collaborative approach ensures that the market design reflects the real needs of business owners while promoting inclusivity and long-term sustainability.