Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State commissioned the newly rebuilt Modibbo Adama Modern Market, Yola, describing the project as a model for urban renewal and economic development that could inspire similar interventions across Nigeria.
The governor said the market replaced the old Yola Market, which had for decades been plagued by repeated fire outbreaks, poor sanitation and congestion that disrupted commercial activities and destroyed the livelihoods of traders.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony in Yola, Fintiri said the new facility reflects his administration’s commitment to addressing longstanding public infrastructure challenges through practical and sustainable solutions.
“The rebuilt market is not just a replacement of the old structure but a lasting solution that restores hope, improves safety, enhances the business environment and rebuilds the livelihoods of families,” he said.
The governor recalled that after a devastating fire incident last year, his administration promised to reconstruct the market into a modern commercial hub, adding that the commissioning fulfilled that pledge.
Fintiri said the project demonstrated that indigenous contractors, when properly supervised, could successfully deliver major public infrastructure to acceptable standards.
According to him, the entire project was executed by local contractors from Adamawa State, creating employment opportunities while showcasing local capacity in infrastructure development.
The new market comprises 936 shops, including 816 lock-up shops and 120 open shops, alongside wider access roads to allow easy movement of emergency vehicles, particularly fire trucks.
Other facilities include a fire service station, fire hydrants installed at strategic locations, overhead water tanks, a comprehensive water reticulation system, improved drainage channels, modern toilet facilities and an administrative block for efficient market management.
Fintiri disclosed that although the traders’ union initially submitted a list of 307 eligible beneficiaries, the government increased the allocation to 350 shops to accommodate possible omissions.
He directed the Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industries to engage professional facility managers to oversee security, sanitation and maintenance of the market to preserve the investment.
The governor also urged traders to take ownership of the facility by maintaining cleanliness and protecting the infrastructure from vandalism and misuse.
As part of the ceremony, Fintiri officially renamed the facility Modibbo Adama Modern Market, Yola (MAMMY) in honour of the historical legacy of Modibbo Adama.
He said the naming reflects the rich heritage of Yola and symbolises the state’s commitment to preserving its history while investing in modern infrastructure to stimulate economic growth.
