BY DAVID ADUGE-ANI, ABUJA
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has inaugurated the first Green Solar-powered Farmers Market in Utako-Abuja, built by the Abuja Investment Company Limited (AICL).
Our reporter gathered that the Utako Farmers Market, being the first green market in Nigeria, was developed on 3,000 sq meters of land, consisting of 50 lockup shops, 40 informal stalls, and seven warehouses.
Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, while inaugurating the market, on behalf of the administration on Friday, said that the market would serve as a hub of economic empowerment, a centre of agricultural excellence, and a vital link between producers and consumers.
“This market will serve as a platform where farmers can sell directly to buyers, thereby eliminating middlemen, reduce post-harvest losses, and boost rural income,” she said.
Mahmoud advocated for a sustainable, inclusive, and resilient economy that could support local farmers, empower small-scale agribusinesses, and ensure that quality produce is readily accessible to every resident of the territory.
The minister, however, called on the farmers, traders, and entrepreneurs to take full ownership of the facility and use it as a catalyst for growth.
While commending the visionary leadership and dedication of Abuja Investment Company Limited, she also emphasized that the market stands as a demonstration of what could be achieved through public-private collaboration, strategic investment, and community-focused development.
“As we inaugurate this market today, we reaffirm the commitment of the Federal Capital Territory Administration under the leadership of Barrister Nyesom Wike, to drive development that is people-centered, impactful, and sustainable,” she added.
In a statement by her special adviser (media), Austine Elemue,
Mahmoud also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his immense support towards the development of the nation’s capital city.
Speaking earlier, the Group Managing Director/CEO of AICL, Amb. Maureen Tamuno, revealed that the Utako Farmers Market is the first Green Solar-Powered Market of its kind in the FCT and arguably the very first in Nigeria.
She reaffirmed the commitment of the present FCT Administration, under the leadership of Barrister Nyeson Wike, to making Abuja a world-class city and to fulfil the SDG 11 Goal, which focuses on
ensuring that cities grow in a way that supports economic growth, environmental protection, improved
quality of life for all residents, and ensuring a better future for the residents of Abuja.
“We at Abuja Investments Company Limited (AICL) have demonstrated with the Green Farmers Market opening our resolve to actualize environmental sustainability and be part of the solution to the
problem associated with climate change, which is a global concern.
“The Utako Farmers Market being the First Green Market in Nigeria stands as an example of innovation, sustainability, and progress,” she stressed.
Tamuno further revealed that the reliable and clean power supply in the market would enable traders to operate for extended hours and preserved perishable goods, thereby boosting their income.
She added that the market would support the food security policy thrust of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the current administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.