The Minister of State, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mariya Mahmoud, has inaugurated a state-of-the-art solar-powered farmers’ market in Utako, Abuja.

The market project, executed by Abuja Investment Company Limited (AICL), was developed on 3,000 square metres of land and consists of 50 lockup shops, 40 informal stalls, and seven warehouses.

Ms Mahmoud said at the inauguration in Abuja on Friday 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, eliminating middlemen, reducing post-harvest losses, and boosting rural incomes,” she added.

She emphasised that the market stood as a demonstration of what could be achieved through public-private collaboration, strategic investment, and community-focused development.

The minister called on the farmers, traders, and entrepreneurs to take full ownership of the facility and use it as a catalyst for economic growth.

She advocated for a sustainable, inclusive, and resilient economy that could support local farmers, empower small-scale agribusinesses, and ensure that quality produce was readily accessible to every resident of the territory.

Ms Mahmoud commended President Bola Tinubu for his immense support towards the development of the nation’s capital city.

Earlier, the group managing director/chief executive officer of AICL, Maureen Tamuno, said the Utako farmers’ market was the first green solar-powered market in the FCT.

Ms Tamuno reaffirmed the commitment of the Wike-led FCT Administration to making Abuja a world-class city and to fulfilling SDG 11.

She explained that SDG 11 focused on ensuring that cities grow in a way that supports economic growth, environmental protection, improved quality of life for all residents, and a better future for residents of Abuja.

Ms Tamuno said that with the development of the market, the AICL has demonstrated its resolve to actualise environmental sustainability and be part of the solution to the problems associated with climate change.

She added that the market would support the food security policy thrust of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Tinubu-led administration.

(NAN)