From Joseph Asegba, Yola
Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State has commissioned the newly reconstructed Yola Market, rebuilt at a cost of N2.98 billion and renamed Modibbo Adama Modern Market, Yola (MAMMY) in honour of the founder of Fombina.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony in Yola, Governor Fintiri said the completion of the project marked the end of recurring fire outbreaks, poor sanitation and congestion that had characterised the old market for decades.
He explained that the decision to reconstruct the market was aimed at providing modern infrastructure that would promote economic growth, protect traders’ livelihoods and restore public confidence in the commercial centre.
According to him, the former market had become a congested and unhygienic trading environment, notorious for frequent fire incidents that destroyed shops and goods worth millions of naira, causing severe losses to traders.
Fintiri said rather than attributing the disasters to superstition, his administration opted for a practical and lasting solution by demolishing the old structure and rebuilding a modern facility equipped with improved safety measures.
The governor disclosed that the new market comprises 936 shops, including 816 lock-up shops and 120 open stalls, with upgraded facilities designed to improve security, sanitation and the overall business environment.
He added that although the traders’ union initially submitted a list of 307 eligible beneficiaries, the government increased the allocation by 43 shops, bringing the total to 350 to accommodate possible omissions and other necessary considerations.
To ensure effective management and sustainability of the facility, Governor Fintiri directed the Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industries to engage professional facility managers responsible for security, sanitation and routine maintenance.
He said the renaming of the market reflects the rich cultural heritage of Yola and demonstrates his administration’s commitment to preserving history while investing in modern infrastructure that supports economic development.
Governor Fintiri expressed optimism that the Modibbo Adama Modern Market would provide traders with a safer and more conducive environment to operate while boosting commercial activities across Adamawa State.
