Wike commissions second solar-powered market in Abuja

Just 24 hours after commissioning the Utako Farmers Market, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has inaugurated another solar-powered market — the Kugbo International Market in Abuja.

The first phase of the Kugbo International Market, comprising 1,600 shops, was officially opened on Saturday. When fully completed, the market will feature 5,200 stalls, 20 underground warehouses, 20 cold rooms, 10 restaurants, banks, a clinic, as well as police and fire service stations, and is expected to attract over 20,000 daily visitors.

Represented by the Minister of State for FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, Wike described the market as more than just a trading center, but a dynamic ecosystem for business growth, job creation, and investment opportunities.

“This facility will enhance trade and commerce, generate government revenue through taxes and levies, and most importantly, create employment for traders, artisans, and logistics providers in alignment with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda,”; Wike said.

He also commended Ambassador Maureen Tamuno, Group Managing Director of AICL, for her strategic leadership in attracting investments and advancing Abuja’s economic landscape.

Amb. Tamuno, in her remarks, praised the Minister's commitment to transforming Abuja into a world-class city, citing the significant infrastructure and economic development achieved under his leadership.

A major highlight of the event was the allocation of 120 free shops — 20 for each of the six area councils — to local traders, provided by the FCT Minister as part of his empowerment initiative.

Dignitaries who delivered goodwill messages included former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara; former Minister of Information, Prof. Jerry Gana; Senator Anthony Yaro; Senator Binta Masi Garba; Prof. Suleiman Bogoro; and FCT Head of Service, Grace Adayilo. They all applauded the efforts of the FCT leadership and AICL in promoting economic growth and development in the capital city.