By Pwanagba Agabus, Jos
Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has called on all sons and daughters of the State occupying privileged positions of responsibility to join hands with him to advance the economic fortunes of the State.
Adding that, it was not time for fighting; but time to join hands together and build the lives of the citizenry.
Mutfwang made the call during the official Commissioning of the new Jos Metropolitan Development Board (JMDB) Market in Bukuru, Jos South LGA of the State.
He said, “This facility comprises of 165 shops, including 16 warehouses, 133 lock up shops, 15 small shops. In addition, it has 116 stalls and open spaces for hawkers capable of accommodating over 2000 traders; a parking lot and motor park have also been provided to ease access and mobility.
“Clearly, this market is not just a trading hub, it is a lifeline designed to restore dignity and stability to our traders, many of whom have been displaced and caused to wonder from place to place, in search of spaces to do business in line with our administration’s people centered approach.
“I’ve directed the management of this facility to prioritize the interest of displaced women in the allocation of shops this market must serve as a channel of hope and opportunity for those who have previously disadvantaged”, he maintained.
According to him, “We are prepared to overcome challenges and embrace new opportunities and implement sustainable strategies that guarantee steady progress for our economy.
“I call on all of you, our traders, community members and stakeholders, to take full ownership of this facility. Your job is to protect it, maintain it and use it to improve your lives and contribute to the collective prosperity of Plateau State.
“My administration remains steadfast in its commitment to creating the right environment for small businesses to thrive, because an economically thriving platform is indeed a cost plus Plateau.
“As your governor, I am personally committed to ensuring that economic empowerment remains central to our developmental agenda.
“We shall continue to invest the resources required to take bold and courageous decisions; and lead with transparency and accountability so that our people can be liberated from poverty.
“Together, let us rise to build a resilient economy, not just for today, but for the generations yet to come.
“I use this opportunity to call on all Plateau sons and daughters who are privileged to occupy any position of responsibility and honour to join hands together with us; if you join hands together with us, we will advance Plateau.
“It is not time for us to fight; it is time for us to join hands together and build the lives of our people; and I’m sure that the more united we are, the more Plateau will progress.
“My doors are open, my hands of fellowship are reached out that we can be able to move together as, sons and daughters of Plateau in order to make life better for our people”, he admonished.
Earlier in his welcome remarks, General Manager of JMDB, Arch. Hart Bankat, said, “Your vision and leadership is instrumental in driving our developmental initiatives, and we are grateful for the trust you have placed in us.
According to him, “The JMDB Market Bukuru is a testament to our commitment to creating modern, efficient and sustainable infrastructure.
“This facility is designed to meet the needs of traders and shoppers alike, provided clean and well organised environment that will undoubtedly boost economic activities in this area”, he maintained.
