Gov Buni flags-off N2.8bn Damaturu market project

Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State yesterday laid the foundation for the construction of an ultramodern market in Damaturu, the first since the state was created 28 years ago.

The governor said foundation-stone ceremony that the project would be completed within 12 months and would be undertaken by Euro Afric Energy Ltd, one of 12 companies that bided for the project, at the cost of N2.8bn.

He said his administration was investing in the building of markets in Damaturu and six other towns across the state because of the urgency to boost economic growth.

“It used to be that the running of the Damaturu Sunday Market was vested in the Damaturu Local Government Council. That was the case since the creation of our state over 28 years ago. But times have changed. With the dilapidated and inadequate structures in the market and the urgent need to boost economic growth, we thought we needed to intervene at the state level; and this is exactly what we are doing right now.

“We are confident that this would ensure that we have in place here in the state capital a standard and appropriate business environment and a one-stop location for all kinds of items and products”, he said.

The governor maintained that to fully achieve the objectives for which the market was being established, it would be run as a limited liability company.

“At my direction, the acting Secretary to the State Government will therefore immediately commence work for the drafting of the enabling law for the establishment, powers and functions of the market”, he said.