Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa has approved N5 billion for the upgrade of 12 livestock and grains markets across the state.

Mr Fintiri, represented by his deputy, Kaletapwa Farauta, made this known on Thursday during the inauguration of the upgraded livestock and grain market in Ngurore, Yola South Local Government Area.

He said the initiative was part of efforts to strengthen the agricultural value chain, ensure food security, promote industrialisation, and boost export potential in the state.

According to him, the upgraded facilities include five cattle markets and seven grain markets across the 21 local government areas.

The governor also announced the establishment of a State Market Management Company to work with local governments and stakeholders for the maintenance and sustainability of the markets.

“The company will support the growth of businesses, stimulate the local economy, and bring prosperity to our people,” he said.

Mr Fintiri urged community members and beneficiaries to ensure the facilities are properly managed and protected to prevent deterioration.

He explained that the intervention was part of the Adamawa Agribusiness Support Programme (ADAS-P), a public-private partnership initiative designed to modernise agriculture and enhance productivity.

“The programme is aimed at attracting private sector investments, improving access to markets, increasing farmer incomes, creating jobs, and guaranteeing food sufficiency,” he said.

He added that under ADAS-P, the government supported the upgrade of market infrastructure, construction of drainage systems, strengthening of security, and enhancement of the business environment in the 12 markets.

In separate remarks, the commissioner for livestock development, Tijjani Maksha, and the commissioner for agriculture, David Jatau, advised beneficiaries to take ownership of the facilities and ensure their proper use.

Also speaking, the chairman of the Livestock Sellers Association, Gidado Walga, commended the government for the initiative and pledged continued support.

Mr Walga called on citizens to support the present administration to enable it to deliver more developmental projects across the state.

(NAN)