By Joyce Remi-Babayeju
The FCT Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud has said that the launch of the first green solar-powered market in Abuja will promote sustainable economic development.
Mahmoud made this known at the official launch of the first state -of – the – art green solar-powered, at farmer’s market at Utako, a flagship project executed by Abuja Investment Company Limited (AICL).
The minister said,”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.”
Mahmoud stated that the solar power intervention will turn the market into a hub of economic empowerment, a centre of agricultural excellence, and a vital link between producers and consumers.
According to her , the market will serve as a platform where farmers can sell directly to buyers, eliminating middlemen, reducing post-harvest losses, and boosting rural incomes.”
The minister further 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.
“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.
The Minister, however, urged farmers, traders, and entrepreneurs to take full ownership of the facility and use it as a catalyst for growth.
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 Abuja Investment Company Limited, Amb. Maureen Tamuno revealed that the Utako farmer’s 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 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 while 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 preserve perishable goods, thereby boosting their income.
End
