The Adamawa State Government, in partnership with the Adamawa State Agribusiness Support Programme (ADAS-P), has stepped up efforts to establish the proposed Adamawa State Markets Management Company with strategic engagements in Toungo and Ganye Local Government Areas.
Speaking during the meetings, the ADAS-P Team Lead, Dr. Ahmed Garba, said the proposed company would take over the management of 12 markets upgraded livestock and grains market under the programme and approved by Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri.
He explained that the initiative is designed to ensure effective maintenance of the markets while providing additional infrastructure to enhance commercial activities across the state.
Dr. Garba stressed that the new structure would not tamper with local government revenues, noting that representatives of the councils would be included on the company’s board. He added that the company would introduce digital systems to modernize operations and improve revenue generation mechanisms.
Further clarifying, the Head of ADAS Programme Component One, Mr. James Bridling, said the 12 upgraded markets under his supervision are expected to generate increased revenue for local governments. He assured that proceeds from the new system would be transparently shared among all stakeholders.
Officials of the affected councils expressed support for the initiative.
Speaking on behalf of the Toungo Local Government Council Chairman, the Vice Chairman, Angelina D. Latbuso, expressed satisfaction with the process and signaled the council’s readiness to support the programme.
Also, the Secretary of Toungo LGA, Hammanjulde Hassan, described the initiative as a welcome development that would help block revenue leakages, assuring of the council’s full cooperation.
At Ganye, the Council Secretary, Abubakar Audi Ribadu, on behalf of the counsel chair commended the initiative as a positive step toward development but advised ADAS-P to work closely with local councils.
The meetings were attended by representatives of the Adamawa State Ministry of Local Government Affairs, alongside executive and legislative council members and ADAS Programme officials.
So far, ADAS-P has presented operational frameworks and consent letters to Fufore, Toungo, and Ganye Local Government Areas, with plans underway to engage the remaining councils hosting the upgraded livestock and grains markets.