The Yobe state government has threatened to revoke shops and stalls allocated to traders in the newly constructed modern markets in Damaturu, Gashua, and Nguru, following traders’ reluctance to move into the facilities.
Governor Mai Mala Buni issued the warning during the distribution of grains to vulnerable households in Damaturu, the state capital. He said the government had made huge investments to provide the modern markets in order to boost business activities and give traders a more dignified and secure environment.
Buni expressed concern that despite the opportunities offered, many traders have refused to relocate, citing high rent and fears of losing existing customers due to the new market locations.
“If traders from Kano and other neighbouring states had access to these facilities, they would be completely occupied, and it would be difficult to even find a single vacant shop,” the governor said.
He added that the government would not allow valuable public resources to waste while people needed opportunities.
“Our traders should know that these shops and stalls in the modern markets were built for them to elevate business in a clean, organised, and secure environment. Any shop owner who fails to open and use their space immediately will have it revoked and reassigned to serious traders,” Buni warned.
The state government said the initiative was part of efforts to enhance commerce and improve the standard of trading in Yobe.
Yobe govt threatens to revoke shops in modern market