By Isreal Adamu, Jos
Traders at the Katako Market in Jos North Local Government Area have praised Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, for his commitment to remodeling the market following a devastating fire outbreak.
The fire, which broke out on Sunday night, destroyed goods worth millions of naira and affected over 200 people, many of whom are carpenters. More than 107 shops were completely destroyed. Shuaibu Ali, Chairman of the Plateau State Carpenters Association, confirmed the recurring issue of fire outbreaks in the market, while trader Mohammed Tukur described the incident as unfortunate.
Despite the devastation, traders have commended Governor Mutfwang for his swift response and plans to revamp the market. “This fire disaster has been a recurring problem, and I believe that after the market is revamped, necessary measures will be taken to address this challenge,” said Tukur.
Another trader, Olabode Kola, also expressed gratitude to the Governor, stating, “We appreciate his efforts and plans to restructure the market. We will continue to pray for his success.”
Governor Mutfwang, who led a delegation to the market on Monday, pledged to provide support to the traders and ensure the market is remodeled to enhance its functionality. He expressed gratitude that no lives were lost in the fire and sympathized with those who lost property. The Governor emphasized that the fire occurred during an already difficult economic time for many residents.
During the visit, Governor Mutfwang became the first sitting Governor in 40 years to inspect the market, which has suffered multiple fire incidents in the past. The Governor assured the traders that the state government, in collaboration with local authorities and market leadership, would develop plans to make the market safer, more organized, and habitable.
“Soon, we will unveil plans to improve the Terminus Market and other markets across the state, making them more functional and effective,” Governor Mutfwang stated. “Our goal is to create safe environments where traders can thrive and provide for their families and the state.”
The Governor also commended the efforts of security agencies, the fire service, and the community for their quick response to the incident. He pledged to address the traders’ requests for improved infrastructure to minimize future risks.
In a statement by Bere Gyang, the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor, the Chairman of Katako Market, Sani Umar, expressed appreciation for the Governor’s timely visit and highlighted the market’s long-standing challenges. Umar noted that the market had suffered 39 fire incidents, attributing the problem to inadequate firefighting equipment, poor water supply, and a disorganized market layout.
The Governor’s recent actions reflect his broader commitment to revamping critical sectors of Plateau State, including infrastructure, healthcare, education, agriculture, and technology. Governor Mutfwang has made significant strides in improving these areas, positively impacting the lives of Plateau residents.
Bulus Rwang, a Plateau State citizen, also commended Governor Mutfwang for his people-oriented leadership, particularly in the past year. He praised the administration’s focus on education, good governance, and policies designed to improve citizens’ lives.
